Dear Santa Clara community,

I write to our campus community as war in Israel and Gaza unfolds in the wake of the heinous acts of terror committed by Hamas against innocent civilians in Israel. There can be no justification for the murder of innocent people, and we condemn this unequivocally. We also grieve for the senseless loss of all lives impacted by this conflict and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.

These tragic events, distant in miles, are reverberating around the globe and impacting us here on campus. Many Jewish students have communicated to me directly that they are experiencing vile, anti-Semitic attacks on social media. And we know many of our Arab and Jewish students, staff, and faculty are fearful for their safety and are experiencing bigotry in these perilous times.

We condemn all forms of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. Bigotry is unacceptable. Period. Our Bronco community must work together to ensure a safe and inclusive campus. We also must work for a greater society, free from violence and hate, where all among us feel they are welcome and that they belong.  

Our campus safety office is in close consultation with law enforcement officials to monitor developments and help maintain the safety and security of all in our SCU community.  As many of us experience a range of emotions and reactions, we continue to make resources and pastoral support available.  

Together, we pray for peace.  And we work to fulfill our University’s vision for a more humane and just world.

With prayers,

 
Julie Sullivan
President

• Campus Ministry. Staff are available from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and can be reached at 408-554-4372 or 408-551-1930 and campusministry@scu.edu.
• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). Located at Cowell Center, CAPS is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and is reachable at 408-554-4501. Crisis (drop-in) hours are available daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CAPS 24/7 is available for after-hours crisis calls by calling (408) 554-5220.
• The Office for Multicultural Learning. Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or as requested at oml@scu.edu or 408-551-7152.
• Office of Student Life. The Office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and can be reached at 408-554-4583.
• Residence Hall Support. Students who live on campus may reach out to their Resident Director, Faculty Director, Therapist in Residence, or Spirituality Facilitators for support and assistance.
• Students can also contact Campus Safety Services if they have safety concerns or need assistance reaching service providers, especially after hours, at 408-554-4441.
• For faculty and staff, information about the confidential Concern Employee Assistance Program is available 24/7.