University President Sends Note of Support to Students from Ukraine and Venezuela

Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., has issued a personal note of support to St. John’s University students from Ukraine and Venezuela:

Dear St. John’s Student,

In light of the escalating crisis situations in the Ukraine and in Venezuela, I am reaching out to the St. John’s community today to offer an assurance of support.

Whether or not you and your families are personally affected by the crises in Ukraine and Venezuela, we are aware that some of the images of protests and violence that are emerging may be upsetting. St. John’s is home to many international students, faculty, and staff members and we want to remain sensitive to concerns that may arise during times of uncertainty in students’ homelands.

For students who may be experiencing stress or anxiety, please know that the University community is here to support you. We encourage any student who feels the need for assistance to contact one of the many resources we have available to you; the Center for Counseling and Consultation, the department of Campus Ministry, and the Residence Life staff are all in place to help guide students through challenges such as this.

Should you have additional concerns please reach out to Dr. Kathryn Hutchinson, Vice President for Student Affairs, at hutchink@stjohns.edu or 718-990-6596.

On behalf of the St. John’s family, our hearts and prayers go out to the Ukrainian and Venezuelan communities in this time of struggle.

Sincerely,

Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M.
President