Study Breaks, Columbia Welcome Ambassadors, Resources and new Title IX Regulations

May 08, 2020

Dear Students,

As you’re now in finals, I’ll keep this email shorter than usual, with news, study break ideas and reminders about help for whenever you need it.

University Life Events Council and Columbia Welcome Ambassadors
While we do not yet know how the fall will look, whether it is virtual or in person, we will still be welcoming students to campus and we invite you to help lead the way with Columbia Welcome, which will take place during the first few weeks of the Fall 2020 semester. Columbia Welcome is designed to kick off the new academic year and create opportunities for students to meet people within other schools. Or, you could be a school liaison to the University Life Events Council for year-round student community building (this is the group that brought you Escape the Zoom!). Apply to be a school liaison now or sign up by August 2 to be a Columbia Welcome Ambassador!  

New Federal Title IX Regulations Governing Gender-Based Misconduct Complaints
The U.S. Department of Education has announced new Title IX regulations for how colleges and universities respond to gender-based misconduct complaints. We are reviewing the new regulations closely and will revise Columbia’s policies as needed, in keeping with our strong commitment to addressing gender-based misconduct reports fairly and with sensitivity to the issues involved. Visit Columbia’s Sexual Respect website for up-to-date policy information and supportive resources.

Study Breaks
Take a study break and…

Resources for you
Visit University Life’s website for up-to-date information about Columbia resources to support you in this time and other opportunities to get involved.

Looking Ahead to Commencement
We’re looking forward to cheering on our graduates during the University’s virtual Commencement Ceremony on May 20 at 11 am and virtual class day celebrations of schools across Columbia. As we get closer, check your University Life social media for our video celebrating you!  

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Especially in this finals season, please make use of the resources, events and other opportunities on University Life’s website whenever you need them, and be in touch with your questions and suggestions at [email protected].

In community,

Professor Suzanne B. Goldberg
Executive Vice President for University Life
Herbert and Doris Wechsler Clinical Professor of Law

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See below for a quick resource guide – and visit University Life’s Student Resources on COVID-19 for comprehensive listings.

Easy-Access Medical, Mental Health and SVR Contact Information

  • To reach a medical professional, call 212-854-7426 (Morningside) or 212-305-3400 (CUIMC).
  • To reach a mental health professional, call 212-854-2878 (Morningside) or 212-305-3400 (CUIMC).
  • To reach Sexual Violence Response (all campuses), call 212-854-HELP/4357.

Information About COVID-19

  • Columbia’s COVID-19 website provides information, resources and volunteer opportunities for the Columbia community.
  • Call Columbia’s COVID-19 hotline for general questions, Monday-Friday, 9 am-5 pm, 212-854-9355.
  • Remember to protect yourself and others: Wear a face-covering or mask if you need to leave your home for essential reasons and especially where social distancing isn’t possible, wash your hands frequently with soap and water, don’t touch your face with unwashed hands, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily, and stay home if you’re not feeling well.

Virtual Support Groups, Workshops and Gatherings – Counseling, Student Wellness and Religious Life