Dear Faculty Colleagues,
As we continue to grapple with the aftermath of Monday’s tragedy and prepare for a return to campus and teaching, we write today to build on communications from the Chair of the Faculty and Office of the Provost. The Provost’s Office, Center for Faculty Excellence, and Office of Faculty Governance are collaborating to provide support and resources for you. We are committed to providing a supportive space for faculty to navigate these challenging times.
Faculty Support Sessions
Beginning TODAY we are offering a series of facilitated faculty support sessions. These sessions are intended to be safe spaces that provide opportunities for connection and conversation. While they are not counseling sessions, facilitators can assist faculty in connecting to counseling resources at the end of the session.
In-Person Session August 30: Anne Queen Faculty Commons, Campus Y
3:30–4:15 pm
There is no need to sign up; please drop in whenever you are able.
Additional sessions, both in-person and on Zoom, are currently being scheduled throughout this week and next week. Once the schedule is finalized, we will share with all faculty.
Additional Counseling Resources
Several counseling resources are available. We strongly encourage you to seek help and to access these resources as needed.
In addition to faculty support groups, employees of UNC may engage with the Employee Assistance Program. EAP will have dedicated counselors available for faculty and staff today: in person from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Chapman Hall, Room 125, 205 S. Columbia St., Chapel Hill, and by phone at 704-525-5850 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EAP support is also available online at guidanceresources.com. Log on with a username and password or register with Web ID: TARHEELS. You may also call 877-314-5841 to make an appointment with a counselor. Support is free and confidential.
Resources for Returning to the Classroom
The concern for our students is clear. The Center for Faculty Excellence has created resources in collaboration with Michigan State University, University of Virginia, and Northern Illinois University, all of whom have experienced campus shootings. These resources will be accessible later this afternoon through the CFE website: cfe.unc.edu.
Our Carolina community has survived many devastating and challenging experiences by supporting each other. Please take care of yourselves and help each other when you can.
With sincere and kind regards,
Giselle Corbie, MD, MSc
Senior Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs
Erin Malloy, MD
Associate Provost for Faculty Development and Success
Director, Center for Faculty Excellence
Beth Moracco, PhD, MPH
Chair of the Faculty