We all are shocked and saddened by the devastation caused by Friday’s earthquake and tsunami in Japan. UCLA is fortunate to enjoy strong relationships in Japan and many of our students, staff and faculty, including me, have meaningful personal and professional connections there. We send our deepest sympathy to those who have lost family members and friends during this tragedy and our thoughts are with those whose lives are still in danger.
For students and scholars from Japan who are studying at UCLA, counseling and support services have been made available through the Dashew Center for International Students and Scholars.
I am very pleased to have learned that the nine UCLA students studying in the Tokyo area as part of the UC Education Abroad Program are safe and secure.
We can be proud that UCLA is contributing to the relief effort in several ways. For example, Professor Jonathan Stewart, an expert in geotechnical earthquake engineering, will be part of a response team headed to Sendai, where he will inspect levees, dams, buildings, ports and other structures. In addition, members of UCLA’s Nikkei Student Union and Japan Student Association are collecting funds on Bruin Walk this week and during the first two weeks of spring quarter, with all proceeds to be donated to the American Red Cross’ relief efforts.
I encourage you to support these efforts through the students’ drive or by contributing through the Red Cross website.
Please visit UCLA Newsroom for continuing updates about UCLA students and faculty in Japan.
Sincerely,
Gene D. Block
Chancellor
