Statement from President Peter Scott on the crisis in Ukraine

Like the rest of the world, the Athabasca University community has watched in horror and sadness as the attacks on Ukraine have claimed the lives of its citizens, threatened freedom and democracy, and risked an even larger global conflict.

Our hearts go out to the people of Ukraine. We share the pain of Ukrainians in communities around the world, including in our own AU community—our Ukrainian students, team members, and those with family and friends in Ukraine, and anyone who is in harm’s way.

AU is a global community, and we are all impacted by violence and aggression wherever it happens in the world. It is incumbent upon us to help, to hold on to hope, and to show kindness wherever we can.

We are looking urgently at ways to help learners in our community who may be impacted. And I would like to call out to you other ways in which we can all help in these terrible times, by supporting the relief effort by national agencies such as the Canadian Red Cross, where donations are being matched by the federal government, UNICEF Canada, and many others.

The invasion of Ukraine is horrifying to comprehend, let alone witness on the news and through social media. We know that you may be struggling. Please reach out to our university supports if you need them at this difficult time, and know that we are here for you.

Dr. Peter Scott, President

Support is available

Carepath Digital Health

Carepath Digital Health offers a comprehensive wellness support program to meet your mental health and wellness needs. Support is available 24/7.

TalkCampus

Get instant support for your mental health any time of day and night through the TalkCampus app.

• Talk about the ups and downs of life in a safe and supportive environment that is just for students like you.
• Share your own experiences and support others. It is amazing how helpful you can be to someone out there just by being you!
• Open up or post anonymously. It is totally up to you. Whatever way you want to engage in is your call.
• Safely share struggles with anxiety, depression, stress, bipolar disorder, self-harm, anorexia, or thoughts of hopelessness. Whatever is going on with you right now, we are here.

Athabasca University Health and Wellness

There are many other resources available for both students and team members on the AU Mental Health and Wellness site.

All AU team members have access to the Employee and Family Assistance Program.