A Message of Support for McMaster University’s Indian Community

Bonny Ibhawoh, vice-provost (International), reaffirms McMaster’s unwavering commitment to fostering a safe, supportive and inclusive environment.

Dear Community Members;

I’m writing to reinforce how much we cherish our diverse community, and deeply appreciate the value it brings to campus and to society. It is the unique perspectives, treasured skills and profound insights of our students, faculty and staff from around that globe that help our campus and Canada to thrive.

We acknowledge that recent news stories may have caused some concern and uncertainty, especially among our students, staff and faculty members from India or of Indian descent. During times of uncertainty like this, it becomes increasingly important to reaffirm the university’s unwavering commitment to fostering an environment that is safe, supportive and inclusive.

Please rest assured that we remain steadfast in our dedication to creating a nurturing, welcoming and supportive environment for all our community members.

In moments of doubt or anxiety, please remember that we are here to help and support you. We have comprehensive mental health support services available for students, staff and faculty. Our international student offices on campus are ready to provide guidance and support tailored to students’ unique needs. The well-being of our community members is our top priority.

With warm regards,

Bonny Ibhawoh, Vice Provost (International Affairs)

Here are some resources that you might find useful:

TRAVEL TO INDIA

Find information on the Government of Canada’s website.

EMPLOYEE AND FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

The Employee and Family Assistance Program Provides access to mental, physical, social and financial wellbeing support

INTERNATIONAL AND EXCHANGE STUDENT EXPERIENCE (IESE)

The IESE team offers drop-ins in MUSC B118:

• Mondays and Fridays, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET
• Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET

Or email iss@mcmaster.ca to arrange a personal one-on-one appointment. Appointments are confidential and take place in a welcoming, safe environment.

IESE also offers personalized immigration advising support. For questions, appointments can be booked on OSCARplus.

STUDENT WELLNESS CENTRE (SWC)

The Student Wellness Centre is available to support your mental health needs.

Book an initial consultation appointment with a counsellor to explore your support options. Call 905-525-9140 x27700 to book.

Walk-in appointments are also available on a first-come, first-serve basis:

• Monday to Wednesday: 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET
  Thursday: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET
  Friday: 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET

SPIRITUAL CARE AND LEARNING CENTRE (SCLC)

The SCLC is an open, safe space that supports all religious, secular and spiritual identities (RSSI). You can contact the SCLC leaders or drop by the office in MUSC 212.

OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR: STUDENT SERVICES

If you have urgent financial need, please contact the Student Services team.

ACADEMIC ADVISING

If you are an undergraduate student in need academic accommodation during this time, please connect with your program academic advisor. If you are a graduate student, please connect with your program or supervisor.

STUDENT CASE MANAGEMENT

For a list of 24-hour services, visit the Student Case Management website.