Dear USC community,
The terribly destructive fires that have ravaged California this past week have directly and profoundly affected the USC community.
Some members of our community live in areas that have been evacuated, or have sustained tremendous damage, while many more have been feeling significant stress and worry about family members, loved ones, and friends who reside in these areas, and who now may be facing difficult recoveries. We understand and share your concern and want to help however we can.
We are monitoring the developments closely, and are in the process of contacting those whom we know have been directly affected. If you have not been contacted, and are in need of assistance or support, I encourage you to consider these resources:
- Faculty, students, and staff in need of assistance, including crisis support, can contact USC Support and Advocacy at (213) 821-4710.
- Students who would like counseling services can contact (213) 740-9355 (WELL).
- Faculty and staff who are seeking support can contact the Center for Work and Family Life at (213) 821-0800.
- If you are concerned about a fellow Trojan who may be struggling with personal difficulties, you can anonymously and privately contact Trojans Care for Trojans (TC4T) at: https://studentaffairs.usc.edu/trojans-care-for-trojans-tc4t/.
We often say that Trojans care for Trojans, and this is especially true in times of crisis. We are here for each other, and come together as a community as we face adversity. I am continually heartened to see the compassion of our Trojan Family, and the healing power of its bonds.
Sincerely,
Wanda M. Austin
Interim President