VCC president’s statement of support for Ukraine

 

A message from VCC president Ajay Patel

Dear VCC community,

Over the past week and increasingly over the past 48 hours, news and social media have been heavy with devastating updates on Russia’s attacks on Ukraine. I share with many of you, deep concerns for the people of Ukraine, and offer the college’s support and care to our students and employees of Ukraine heritage and ties whose families, friends, and communities are directly impacted by these intolerable acts of violence. 

On behalf of VCC and our Board of Governors, I join Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and B.C. Premier John Horgan in condemning Russia’s actions, and echo the international community’s calls for de-escalation and an immediate resolution to the conflict.    

For our students, faculty, and staff that may be affected by this conflict, we stand with you during this evolving situation. 

In particular, I would like to assure our international students that we are here for you.  

If you need support, please contact the international education student services team at ieservices@vcc.ca or call 604.443.8600. Confidential support is also available to students through Counselling Services (604.871.7000 option 2) and for employees through Morneau-Shepell (1.844.880.9142).

In solidarity,

Ajay Patel