April 13, 2024
Dear Hobart and William Smith Students,
We write following President Gearan’s letter to the community. We have learned that navigating complex global issues like the Israel and Palestine conflict can lead to intense conversations, but as a community we have also demonstrated the ability to have active listening and effective dialogue, and to share empathy for the lived experiences of one another. As we shared earlier this semester, we have curated a list of resources to help individuals learn and find support.
The Office for Spiritual Engagement provides a space for exploring diverse perspectives and fostering understanding across different faith traditions, and multiple resources are available.
- The Chaplain and Dean for Spiritual Engagement, the Rev. Nita Byrd, is available by calling (315) 781-3670 or via email at byrd@hws.edu.
- Rabbi Ann Landowne is a valuable resource for engaging in conversations about the religious and cultural dimensions, and offers a supportive space for our Jewish students to share their perspectives and experiences. She can be reached at landowne@hws.edu.
- Our Muslim Life Center offers insights into Islamic perspectives on the conflict, led both by an active student club and Imam Shaheed Ali, Muslim Student Advisor, who can be reached at alis@hws.edu.
Additionally, our Counseling Center is here to provide support for those who may be feeling emotionally impacted by the conflict or discussions. The Counseling Center is available for drop-in appointments by calling (315) 781-3388. Crisis Counseling can be reached anytime of the day or night including through breaks by calling (315) 781-3388 and selecting 1.
The staff within Campus Life and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are also available to facilitate respectful and constructive dialogues and to provide support to students. Let's utilize these resources to find support and promote informed, empathetic and meaningful discussions within our community.
Best regards,
Imam Shaheed Ali, Muslim Student Advisor
Becca Barile, Vice President for Campus Life and Dean of Students
The Rev. Nita C. Johnson Byrd, Chaplain and Dean of Spiritual Engagement
Rabbi Ann Landowne, Abbe Center Director and Hillel Advisor
Bill Woodson, Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion