Shane Smeed, the current president, expresses backing for the Ukrainian populace
Park University, a institution deeply rooted in the value of freedom, is making a concerted effort to support its international students amidst the ongoing conflict in Europe.
In a recent address, Shane B. Smeed, the University's President, underscored the importance of adhering to the core values that guide Park University. However, a quick search does not reveal specific support services for international students from Ukraine, Russia, or during global conflict.
Typically, universities like Park University would have dedicated international student support offices or centers, offering crisis assistance, counseling, and academic support. These offices would also have case management or specialized staff trained to help students from conflict-affected countries navigate financial, academic, and emotional challenges.
Moreover, universities would coordinate with local and federal resources for emergency aid and provide communication updates on global conflicts and travel advisories. For instance, the University of Wisconsin–Madison has an Office of Student Assistance and Support that addresses the needs of students from war-torn countries, providing crisis response and connections to academic, financial, and health resources.
Given the absence of such information about Park University, it is advisable to reach out directly to the University's International Student Services or the student affairs offices for specific programs related to assisting Ukrainian and Russian students during conflicts.
In addition to university-specific support, universities often supplement these efforts with resources from broader humanitarian or community organizations focused on refugee and international student welfare.
Park University's commitment to its international students extends beyond the academic realm. The University serves students from Ukraine, Russia, and 57 other countries this semester. This week, a meeting was held with Park University students, faculty, and staff at Joint Base San Antonio, underscoring the University's dedication to supporting its students who are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The recent conflict has undoubtedly impacted students from Ukraine, Russia, and other countries. In response, Park University aims to continue shining a beacon of light in a time that demands leadership and a devotion to the universal applicability of core values. As a part of the international community, Park University's liberal arts mission includes global citizenship.
The discussions at the meeting encompassed the world in which students serve, the world in which they live, and the world that they all have a stake in preserving. The meeting served as a reminder to never take freedom for granted.
International students have been attending Park University since 1880. For students who are feeling anxious, the University's Counseling Center and Health Services offer licensed counselors at no charge. International students can also contact the University's International Education office for guidance and support.
By serving those who serve, Park University feels a responsibility to lead principled and critical discussions about the world. The University stands firm in its commitment to its international students and the broader global community.
- Park University, in line with its commitment to global citizenship and education-and-self-development, could establish specific support services aimed at Ukrainian and Russian students during global conflicts, similar to the assistance offered by the University of Wisconsin–Madison's Office of Student Assistance and Support.
- With politics shaping the current climate, it would be beneficial for Park University to collaborate with general-news outlets and humanitarian organizations, further supplementing their efforts to provide comprehensive support for their international students, especially those from conflict-affected countries like Ukraine and Russia.
