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A Message from the Dean

At times such as these, leaders often share words of encouragement, remind all of us of our shared values, and cite tangible ways we can make a difference.

Today - as our nation groans under the crushing weight of a centuries-long history of racism that has so sickened our society - those words simply will not come to me and I am deeply skeptical if there is anything I could say that could help us deal with the situation at hand or point a way forward. With the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and too many others... the anger and sadness are too raw and the realities of racialized violence and systemic injustice are starkly laid bare, again.

So, instead of insightful or uplifting words, I am reaching out to say that I am present with you in this moment, and the moments to come; ready to listen and be there for you. Please get in touch with me to share your concerns, ideas, and ways the school can tangibly make a difference in our communities. Too, I invite you to read President Schlissel’s resolute message to our community, and Chief Diversity Officer Robert Sellers’ powerful personal response.

And, during this time of incredible stress and heartache, I urge anyone who needs support to access our university’s resources. Students can receive support through CAPS, the university’s counseling and psychological services. All faculty and staff in Ann Arbor, Dearborn and Flint can access services through the Faculty and Staff Counseling and Consultation Office.

Learn more about our ongoing commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion here.

Sincerely,

Guna Nadarajan