In the Wake of the Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka

April 22, 2019

Dear Columbia Community,

 It is with great sadness that we write to you about the violence during Easter services and at other sites in Sri Lanka yesterday. We know that many in our community who identify as Christian or who hold close ties to this region of the world may be particularly distressed by these tragic events.

This year we have witnessed multiple attacks against faith communities – including the Tree of Life Synagogue shootings in Pittsburgh and the mosque shootings during Jummah prayers in Christchurch, New Zealand just last month, and these Easter Sunday bombings at churches and elsewhere in three Sri Lankan cities.  In these difficult times, we will continue to stand together as one community that values the fundamental dignity and worth of all people, reaffirming our collective commitment to stand against violence and hatred in all its forms.  

All are welcome to gather in St. Paul’s Chapel at 5 pm today to remember the victims of yesterday's attacks and support one another in community.  

We also want to remind you of these supportive resources for all Columbia students:

Counseling

Students on the Morningside campus who would like to speak with a counselor can call Counseling and Psychological Services at (212) 854-2878.

For students on the CUIMC campus, call Mental Health Services at (212) 305-3400.

Columbia Health

Students on the Morningside campus can find additional support from Columbia Health.

CUIMC students can contact Student Health Service.

Office of the University Chaplain

Please visit the University Chaplain website for contacts.

Public Safety

If you have safety concerns, you can always contact Public Safety at:

  • 212-854-5555 (Morningside)
  • 212-305-7979 (Columbia University Medical Center)
  • 212-853-3333 (Manhattanville)

or consult the University’s emergency protocols.

Any students in need of assistance in the coming days can contact their dean of students, any of the above resources, or the Office of University Life ([email protected]).    

Sincerely,

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