Friday, Mar 4, 2022
A letter from President Dell'Omo
Dear students, faculty and staff,
Over the past two weeks we have watched the unprovoked Russian invasion of Ukraine with horror and grave concern. This unjustified attack has already led to the unnecessary suffering of hundreds of thousands of ordinary people, with no end in sight.
Like so many, I have been inspired by the courage of Ukrainians, who are mounting stiff resistance against daunting odds. Even as we take heart from their brave response, it is impossible not to feel distressed by the scenes of carnage and the implications of an unfolding war.
This is especially true for anyone with direct ties to Ukraine. For everyone at Rider who is distraught over the plight of their family, friends and colleagues in Ukraine, we stand shoulder to shoulder with you in decrying this moral atrocity. We are united in reviling the authoritarian impulse that is generating so much destruction.
Planning for a community-wide vigil at Rider is underway now so that we can gather as a community next week and gain strength and comfort from one another. More information will be shared as those details become finalized.
Update: A campus day of solidarity with Ukraine will be held at Rider on March 10.
In the meantime, I want to remind you that Rider’s Counseling Services is available for anyone who is experiencing fear, pain or anxiety and would like to speak with someone about it.
I know many of you have a desire to help. Dr. Chrystina Dolyniuk has been working with the St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church of Newark to collect donations for a humanitarian aid drive for the people of Ukraine.
This flyer has more information. Dr. Dolyniuk shares that, in addition to donations, which are being accepted through March 10, they are in need of boxes and volunteers, who can report directly to the Hopewell Fire Department during the following hours:
- March 4, 6-9 p.m.
- March 5, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.
- March 7-10, 5-9 p.m.
Every piece of support we offer to the Ukrainian people can make a difference in serving the country's growing humanitarian needs.
Sincerely,
Gregory G. Dell’Omo, Ph.D.