A letter from Byron Hughes, dean of students

Dear Hokies,

Like many of you, I’ve been watching the situation in Ukraine unfold with a heavy heart. From one day to the next, the lives of Ukrainian citizens have dramatically changed as the conflict with Russia has escalated.

Unfortunately, members of our Virginia Tech community have been impacted by this conflict. For those Ukrainian and Russian students I have spoken with, the anxiety and worry about their families at home has made this one of the hardest times of their lives as Virginia Tech community members. Whether it be our students, alumni, staff, faculty, or their family members, our hope for peace is with them during this difficult time.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the emotional effects of this conflict, Virginia Tech has many options for support. My colleagues and I in the Dean of Students Office are ready to help, as well as staff from Cook Counseling Center, Cranwell International Center, Graduate Life Center, and Hokie Wellness. I encourage you to take advantage of the resources available.

Virginia Tech strives to create a culture where we affirm the inherent dignity and value of every person. Any act that crosses the threshold of violence has no place on our campuses or in our world.

I keep my thoughts with those who are affected and wish for a quick resolution to this crisis.

With hope and in solidarity,

Byron Hughes,
Dean of Students

Those in the Virginia Tech community who need assistance or counseling support may contact:

• Better Together
• Cook Counseling Center at 540-231-6557
• Dean of Students Office at 540-231-3787. Referral to a campus cleric may be made through this office.
• Employee Assistance Program
  • Anthem at 855-223-9277
  • Aetna at 888-238-6232
  • Kaiser Permanente at 866-517-7042
  • Optima Health Vantage HMO at 866-846-2682
• Graduate Life Center at 540-231-6691
• Hokie Wellness at 540-231-2233 (students) or 540-231-8878 (employees)
• Office of Housing and Residence Life at 540-231-6205
• Women’s Center at Virginia Tech at 540-231-7806

• Burruss Hall lighting in support for Ukraine