Office of the President
Campus Messages

The Impact of War on our Community

A Message from President Darryll J. Pines

By Darryll J. Pines

Dear campus community,

Over the weekend, the world watched a terrifying attack on Israel by Hamas that killed and injured thousands, leading to a war that is ravaging communities. These attacks are claiming even more Israeli and Palestinian lives, including civilians and families, throughout a region that has struggled to find peace.

Let us support one another through this, particularly the Israeli, Jewish, Muslim, Christian and Palestinian members of our community, and their loved ones who are facing this tragedy firsthand in the Middle East.

As a proudly diverse and international community of students, scholars and staff, we recognize that the impact of war affects us here at home too. Even as we try to continue our daily lives, the horrific scenes out of the region—and in other areas of conflict across the globe—can lead to a sense of despair.

Together, we must persist in our dogged belief that our collective future, even in light of the tragic events of this past weekend, rests in our hands. We must continue to work toward a better world, a place where war and violence are extinguished, and where our commitment to all of humanity is unbowed.

Support and resources are available to every member of our campus community. If you need help, please reach out to the Counseling Center or the Faculty Staff Assistance Program. And look after your friends and colleagues who may be struggling. As a community of care and a campus dedicated to service, let us recommit ourselves to one another and to peace in our world.

Sincerely,

Signature of President Darryll Pines

Darryll J. Pines
President, University of Maryland, College Park
He/Him/His

Georgina Dodge Signature

Georgina Dodge
Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion
She/Her/Hers