Dear Students,

What a week this has been. Spring break 2020 was probably not the restful and relaxing week that you were hoping for.  I am writing to provide you with some important updates. You have likely heard that New York's Governor announced new restrictions that will go into effect in New York City and for entire State at 8 p.m. on Sunday evening.  And President Bailey's message tonight gave important information about resuming online classes on Monday, March 23, an update on grading grading this term, and the CU Commencement and TC Convocation. 

As we all adjust to these life changes, we want to be sure that you are aware of the support that is available to you.  We hope that you are gaining support from your friends and family virtually. 

This message contains important information about health and well-being resources for you, and about what the new changes in New York mean for you.  

Here’s what you need to know about New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s executive order:

• Limit your outside activity to getting groceries, medicine and exercise. When you exercise, stay 6 feet away from others.  
• Subways and buses will keep operating but don’t use them unless absolutely necessary. Roads will also stay open.
• All nonessential gatherings of any size are banned.
• “Essential” businesses can remain open. These include grocers, restaurants (for takeout and delivery), health care providers, pharmacies, hardware stores, laundromats, banks, convenience stores and some others. Get more information here.

I look forward to engaging with as many of you as I can on TC's social media channels and virtually. I have seen some amazing student posts and I find comfort in seeing you, hearing you (we have some terrific musicians who are posting), and simply connecting with you as we can. You are very creative and using technology to make connections with one another in ways that are inspiring and comforting. 

The rest of this email includes health and well-being support for you at TC, with Morningside, CUIMC and University-wide listings. 

HEALTH and WELL-BEING RESOURCES  

In addition to the resources listed here, Columbia Health lists free mobile apps that can help with coping and calm, and information about national hotlines and text lines for crisis help.

TC Campus

* For up to date information, please be sure to visit the TC Preparedness site. 

* Virtual appointments and online resources are available at TC Student Wellness. 

* Virtual support for your Health Insurance questions.  

* For accommodations or to speak with staff members in the Office of Access for Students & Individuals with Disabilities, please visit our site at (OASID)

* Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS); Staff is available virtually and by telephone to assist any international student and scholar. 

Morningside Campus 

All services have Monday-Friday hours, and 24/7 call lines are bolded below. Visit health.columbia.edu for more information.   

• Alice! Health Promotion: Virtual health education and BASICS appointments: Write to alice@columbia.edu or call 212-854-5453.
• Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS): Virtual individual counseling and medication management plus assistance with referrals to local resources, for all students enrolled in Columbia Health. After-hours crisis intervention is available at all times, including days and nights this weekend. Call 212-854-2878 for all services.
• Medical Services: For urgent, in-person medical needs, call 212-854-7426 to speak to a Columbia Health clinician. Walk-ins will not be accepted. Virtual appointments available on weekdays for routine and urgent medical care. After hours call 212-854-7426.
• Gay Health Advocacy Project (GHAP): Virtual individual sessions for sexual health-related concerns. Call 212-854-6655 or email ghap@columbia.edu

Medical Center Campus

• Medical and Mental Health Services: Use the health portal to schedule telephone appointments and to communicate directly with your provider. After-hours access remains available for urgent medical or mental health needs. For after-hours support, call 212-305-3400, option 7.

University-wide Resources for Students

• Disability Services: Virtual support for academic and housing accommodations for students registered with Disability Services. Write to disability@columbia.edu or call 212-854-2388.
• Sexual Violence Response (SVR): Virtual trauma-informed, confidential support. Weekdays call 212-854-3500 or email svresponse@cumc.columbia.edu. SVR’s 24/7 year-round helpline: 212-854-HELP/4357.

If there is any other way we can provide you with support or assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are in unprecedented times, but together we can get through this. We are TC, we are Community, and we are Strong. 

Please take care of yourself, 
Tom Rock, Vice Provost for Student Affairs