In March we posted a statement rebuking behavior fueled by bias and misinformation stigmatizing members of the Asian community. Today we join many others across the world in rebuking the ongoing violence against Black bodies, Brown bodies and Indigenous bodies.
Echoing our Chancellor’s statement, “[the] events in Minneapolis remind us just how far our country is from achieving anything close to equity and justice for all. We live in a time when intolerance, bigotry and xenophobia have become mainstream, even at the highest levels of our government. That is why it is so important that we stand united and reject racism and bigotry in all its forms. Although we acknowledge that our community is far from perfect, we must always strive to be better, to foster a community that is grounded in the concept of dignity and respect for all.”
Racism impacts the wellbeing of individuals and communities. We all have agency to act in ways that are helpful to ourselves and others. The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has compiled a list of resources for support, education and engagement to combat racism. CMASS is one of those resources. Here we list ways to connect with coaches and join group activities. We will continue to provide other opportunities for connection, support and healing as dates are solidified.
CMASS Gratitude Journaling Connection Event
Grow with Gratitude
June 19, July 17 and August 21 | 2-3pm
Here’s the zoom link: Join Zoom Meeting
https://umass-amherst.zoom.us/j/7926624950
Join CMASS Staff to explore how to incorporate gratitude into your daily life and grow your positive mindset. We all have something to be grateful for.
During these 3 sessions we will look at the benefits of incorporating gratitude into your daily routine, learn about gratitude exercises /activities and engage in positive group discussion. We look forward to your active participation and self-improvement.
CMASS Virtual Craft Night: Origami and other Paper Crafts
Tuesday, June 9, 2020 | 6-7pm
https://umass-amherst.zoom.us/j/93304762005
Join us in this fun virtual activity and create objects made of paper!
Irene Gao, one of our students, will be our guest facilitator. No RSVP required!
Origami is the art of paper folding, which is often associated with Japanese culture. In modern usage, the word "origami" is used as an inclusive term for all folding practices, regardless of their culture of origin.
The workshop will cover origami and a few small paper crafts that are not necessarily origami.
Recommended materials: Ideally it would be rice paper, but for the meantime, we can use any letter-size, thin paper with straight edges.
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CMASS Success Coaches are available to support your success and wellbeing throughout the year. Join us during drop-in hours M-Th to talk with a coach about stressors or concerns impacting your well-being, your focus on student success, and maintain motivation. |
Summer Success with CMASS Success CoachesCMASS STATEMENT:
The ripple effect of this pandemic on the personal and systemic level is devastating. As we engage with colleagues and students, we see a great deal of concern while noticing their efforts to provide support in various ways. We draw energy from within and across and need each other to plan for a post COVID19 future that reflects the best in us.
As stated by our Office of Equity and Inclusion, we wholeheartedly rebuke behavior fueled by bias and misinformation that stigmatizes members of our community, and emphasizes the fact that our Chinese students, staff, and faculty, as well as other community members of Asian descent who may also be experiencing this bias and stigma, are valued and beloved members of our UMass community.
There are a number of ways in which we can continue to confront and fight against bias and discrimination, educate ourselves as viruses can make anyone sick, regardless of race or nationality. Help stop the stigma related to COVID-19 by learning the facts from reputable sources such as the CDC and WHO. Report bias or discrimination incidents using the OEI Climate Incident Report Form. There are many support programs working to promote positive connection and coping skills through CMASS, International Programs Office, the Center for Counseling and Psychological Health, and others listed on the UMass calendar.
Help is within reach and there is no better time than the present to connect with the campus resources in place to support our wellbeing.
UPDATES ABOUT CMASS
Effective Monday, March 16, until further notice, in support of social distancing practice, CMASS staff is working remotely but will continue to provide services for the duration of the semester. You can connect with us by calling 413.545.2517 or by emailing us at cmass@umass.edu.
Here’s an update on how to access specific services:
Success Coaching
Students are encouraged to continue scheduling appointments through NAVIGATE, making sure to let your coach know your preferred method for contact. If you prefer to connect over the phone, ensure your number is updated in SPIRE. If you prefer to connect over videoconference download Zoom.
As we work to shift our services into virtual environments, we know that there may be technology challenges at times-do not hesitate to email your coach directly.
If you don’t have a coach and would like to work with one, email cmass@umass.edu
Success Coaches:
Michelle Youngblood – youngblood@umass.edu
Celia Maldonado – celiam@umass.edu
Doris Clemmons – dc@umass.edu
Willie Pope – wjp@umass.edu
Financial Aid Hours
For assistance with your FAFSA or questions about Financial Aid, please contact Financial Aid Counseling or Customer Service at finaid@finaid.umass.edu during 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Let’s Talk
When something’s bothering you, talking about it is often the first step toward a solution. Let’s Talk is available by calling 413-545-2337, Thursdays from 1 – 2 p.m. “Let’s Talk” is led by clinicians from the Center for Counseling and Psychological Health (CCPH).
Student Care Supply Closet
Our offices in Wilder Hall are closed, and so the Supply Closet is temporarily unavailable. If you have immediate need for supply closet items, please contact the Dean of Students Office at doso@umass.edu
Computer Lab in Wilder Hall
Our offices in Wilder Hall are closed, and so the computer lab is inaccessible at this time.
For continuous updates please visit this site frequently as well as www.umass.edu/Coronavirus
