Fresno State is offering counseling services to students struggling with Tuesday’s election result, the university said Thursday.
“Fresno State is offering counseling services at its Student Health and Counseling Center on a walk-in basis for students in crisis 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday (after hours, students are encouraged to call Exodus),” a university press release said. “Students may also visit listening tables on campus to talk about concerns.”
The President’s Commission on Human Relations and Equity will set up “listening tables” on campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10, and Monday, Nov. 14, at the Speaker Platform in the Free Speech Area.
The tables will be staffed by members of the National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI) Fresno State team, said Dr. Jody Hironaka-Juteau, interim dean of the College of Health and Human Services who is the President’s Commission on Human Relations and Equity chair. The commission, made up of faculty and staff, supports acceptance and fairness at all levels of the University.
Fresno State President Dr. Joseph Castro sent a message of support out to students.
“As your President, I am personally committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive campus environment where everyone can thrive. During challenging times, we have the greatest opportunity to listen and learn from one another,” Castro said. “I was heartened and inspired by the impromptu conversations I had with many of you on campus and in the community today. Your resilience and optimism will propel us forward as we stay focused on our mission to boldly educate and empower students for success.”
Gaby Encinas, coordinator of the Dream Success Center, reports that some of the University’s undocumented students have expressed concerns over U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
She is referring these students to counselors in the health center and is developing informational workshops next week with local immigration attorneys to provide clarification regarding their residence and educational status (details to come), the university said.
Castro said he, too, is aware of the concerns of Dreamers.
“I am keenly aware of the serious concerns that many of our undocumented students have about their future,” Castro said “Fresno State is committed to supporting the success of all of our talented students, including undocumented students. Our students are a critical part of the next generation of leaders in the Valley and beyond.”
For more information, contact Vicki Taylor at 559.278.2083 or for the Dream Center, Encinas at 559.278.1787.