from the Dean, Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Diversity, and the Assistant Dean for Diversity

Dear SEAS Community,

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and loved ones of the thirteen people who were the victims of the horrific evil, hate, and racism that was perpetrated in our city yesterday.  President Tripathi also shared a message about this tragedy with the UB Community.

Members of our SEAS Community have personally experienced loss in this tragedy, and when one member of our community hurts, we all hurt.  If you or your family are in need of support, please reach out to your SEAS community. We grieve with those who grieve; we mourn with those who mourn. 

Your Department Chairs, the SEAS UG Academic Advising Office, the SEAS Office of Diversity, UB Victim Support, UB Counseling Services, and UB Employee Assistance Programs are available to help and UB’s Intercultural and Diversity Center always offers a safe space for students.  Faculty and staff are encouraged to reach out to their supervisor should they need support. 

As a SEAS Community of students, staff, and faculty, together as learners, educators, researchers, and scholars, we have the power, responsibility, and opportunity to join together with each other and with our colleagues from all across UB and around our city to stand for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.  Let's amplify our unified commitment to learn, serve, and lead through our work, impassioned by our commitment to impact our communities with compassion, empathy, and understanding. 

This has been a very difficult few years, but we are all in this together.  As a SEAS community, let's continue to stand against hate and racism.  Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need additional resources or support.

In Community,

Kemper Lewis, PhD
Dean and Moog Professor of Innovation

Rajan Batta, PhD
Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Diversity, and SUNY Distinguished Professor

Letitia Thomas, PhD
Assistant Dean for Diversity