Office of the President
Campus Messages

UMD Solidarity with International Community

By Darryll J. Pines

Dear University of Maryland community,

We are deeply saddened to see the devastating impact that COVID-19 is creating across India and other countries around the world. Although the pandemic has affected us all, the impact from COVID-19 continues to grow more severe outside the United States; in addition to India, parts of South America, the Middle East and other regions have witnessed a dramatic increase of serious illness that is overwhelming health services.

The University of Maryland community includes nearly 6,000 students and over 900 faculty members from across the globe. It is important to recognize and respond to the terrible impact that the pandemic is having on our international Terps, as well as their friends, families and broader communities.

To our international students, scholars and faculty: you are one of the University of Maryland’s greatest strengths, and we recognize the unique challenges and stresses you have faced throughout this pandemic. Our community supports each other in this very challenging time.

Our International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) staff are communicating directly with international students and offering opportunities for support. We encourage you to reach out to ISSS to meet with an advisor, who can discuss your specific situation with you and help to determine the best course of action for the challenging decisions you may be facing. Please also remember that virtual sessions at the Counseling Center are available.

We have heard from people across the university who are holding compassion for our international peers, classmates and colleagues, and wish to express solidarity by taking action. Here are some places that you can demonstrate your support as members of the UMD community:

Thank you and our deepest gratitude. It is crucial to continue finding ways to join together as a community during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

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

Ann Wylie
Senior Vice President and Provost
She/Her/Hers

Spyridon S. Marinopoulos
Spyridon S. Marinopoulos, MD, MBA, FACP
Director, University Health Center
Chief Medical Officer, University of Maryland

He/Him/His

Ross Lewin
Associate Vice President for International Affairs