Message from Provost Cyril Clarke: Support for those affected by Hurricane Helene

Dear colleagues,

The scenes of devastation extending from neighboring states to our communities in southwest Virginia as a result of Hurricane Helene speak to the profound impact on our faculty, staff, and students, especially those who have friends and loved ones in those areas. The physical, emotional, and financial damage from this storm has affected many on our campus and their ability to focus on their studies and responsibilities.

In support of our students and colleagues and echoing a video message from Dean of Students Mark Sikes, please join me in offering those impacted by this disaster your understanding and advocacy during this difficult time. For our instructional faculty who are responsible for decisions on academic requirements and assessments in their courses, I encourage you do your best to be flexible when it is appropriate and offer your consideration and support to students who are struggling to navigate this crisis.

Please also encourage those students, faculty, and staff in need to take advantage of the university resources available below if they require additional support or assistance.

Cyril

• Employee Assistance Program
  • Anthem – 855-223-9277 
  • Aetna – 888-238-6232 
  • Kaiser Permanente – 866-517-7042 
  • Optima Health Vantage HMO – 866-846-2682
• Women’s Center at Virginia Tech – 540-231-7806 
• Virginia Tech Better Together
• Graduate Life Center – 540-231-6691 
• Hokie Wellness – 540-231-8878 
• Cook Counseling Center
• Dean of Students Office

For those who would like more information on support for disaster recovery efforts:

• VT Engage - Hurricane Helene Relief
• United Way of Southwest Virginia
• American Red Cross
• Virginia Department of Emergency Management – Hurricane Helene
• Salvation Army Hurricane Helene Relief