Community Support Activities
As of December 6, 2023
In response to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine since October 7, the Burlington shooting on November 25, and rising concerns within the UVM community, the university has provided—and will continue to offer—opportunities to come together for connection, information, and support. Campus resources have been deployed to enhance security and provide support and comfort; student leaders have been engaged in a variety of meetings and outreach, and campus gatherings have been held to engage with and listen to the concerns of our community.
CAMPUS RESOURCES
Increased security measures, including additional police presence visible throughout campus
Optional escorted transportation for those feeling unsafe to and from campus through the end of the semester
Expanded drop-in counseling sessions at identity centers
Increased downtown bus station security as students leave for breaks and holidays
IN-PERSON GATHERINGS
October 10: Listening session at Hillel with Provost Prelock
October 12: Vigil for Israel
October 19: Vigil for Palestine
November 27: Listening session at the Interfaith Center with Provost Prelock, Vice Provost Ahmed, Vice Provost Caloiero, Chief Safety Officer Schirling, and Chief of Police Bilodeau to discuss safety concerns
November 28: Safety forum for all students, faculty and staff with Chief Safety Officer Schirling, Vice Provost Caloiero, and Vice Provost Ahmed
November 30: Conversation with Hillel director and students, with Vice Provost Caloiero
December 1: Special affinity space for Muslim and Arab students with Vice Provost Ahmed and DEI staff
December 1: Provost Prelock and Vice Provost Caloiero attend Shabbat at Chabad to be in community and hear from students.
December 1: Community listening session with Burlington Mayor Miro Weinberger, Burlington’s Director of Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Kim Carson, and Vice Provost Ahmed.
OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT FROM THE PRESIDENT AND UNIVERSITY LEADERS
Multiple meetings with student leadership representing international students, Muslim students and graduate students:o Meetings with Graduate Student Senate leadership
Meetings with Muslim Student Association President to discuss ways to support students.
Multiple meetings with Student Government Association President and Vice President
Outreach to 17 student organizations (Student Life) by Vice Provost Caloiero to offer support
A variety of personal phone calls with family who call or email concerns
Outreach to local Rabbis serving UVM students
ACADEMIC ENGAGEMENT
Political Science sponsored an educational session on Tuesday, Dec. 5 on the Israel-Arab conflict
History Department hosted an educational session on the Palestine and Israel conflict with faculty experts in this area on Wednesday, Dec. 6