A message of support for our Bobcat community

The following message was shared with students, faculty and staff on the Athens Campus on Sunday, December 8. 

Dear Bobcats,

As our Athens and University communities continue to process the unexpected, off-campus death of one of our students that occurred over the weekend, our entire team would like to share a reminder of the campus outreach and resources that stand ready to support you as we work collectively to uplift one another in the coming days and weeks. 

Student Support Resources

Our CPS staff members remain available to help our University community connect to a wide range of on and off-campus support and resources, including 24/7 emergency and crisis services support.

• CPS will host processing and discussion spaces this week on Tuesday, Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. and Thursday, Dec. 12 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the third floor of Hudson Hall.
• If you are experiencing acute distress or have an urgent need to speak with a counselor: Please call CPS at 740.593.1616 (24/7). Their team is also available after hours, on weekends and during the holidays.
• Drop-In Hours: During weekdays, students can drop in at Hudson Health Center 3rd floor between 9:45 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.; “Let’s Talk” drop-in hours are also available this week through Thursday at the Living Learning Center, Room 160, between the hours of 5 p.m. and 10 p.m.
• Crisis Textline: Text “HOME” to 741-741 – it’s free, 24/7 and confidential

Employee Support Resources

The University, through the Employee Assistance Program, provides private and confidential services free of charge.

• OHIO employees, and their spouse/partners, dependents (26 and younger), household members and parents/parents-in-law are eligible to utilize these services.
• Visit Impact Employee Assistance (enter 'Ohio' as the company code) or call 800-227-6007 to get started.

Looking out for one another

Bobcats take care of their communities, and we encourage you to consider sharing a CARE report with our CARE Team if you ever feel concerned about the well-being of a student. This team is led by our Dean of Students office, and your support helps us ensure we can quickly respond with the appropriate resources to keep all in our community safe.

As fall semester comes to a close and Winter Break approaches, please remember to take time to care for yourself and those around you. Most importantly, do not hesitate to ask for help if you need it – We are here to help you, and we want to do everything we can to help you succeed during your time at OHIO.

In Bobcat Pride,

Kathy Fahl
Dean of Students