Good day.
Based on input received from students affected, in various ways, by the violence in Gaza and Israel, I recently sent a CalMessage to all instructors asking them to be understanding of the considerable stress and suffering many of you are experiencing. In particular, I asked instructors to “assess requests for academic flexibility with compassion, generosity, and from a mindset of what is best for the student.” The full text of my message can be found at
https://evcp.berkeley.edu/news/flexibility-and-compassion-students-and-others-these-dark-times
More details about the campus’s accommodation policies and other supportive measures can be found at https://evcp.berkeley.edu/programs-resources/academic-accommodations-hub
Some students have expressed a fear that their political beliefs, religion, and/or ethnicity might have an effect on their grades and other evaluations. The University is committed to the principle that our students should not be discriminated against on political grounds. Likewise, the University is committed to the principle that students should not be discriminated against based on their origins or identity, including religion or ethnic/national origin. I assure you that coursework will not be evaluated by criteria other than that directly reflective of course performance. If you have concerns that you are being discriminated against in your classroom or on your coursework, please contact the relevant department chair or school dean. Their contact information can be found on the unit’s website. You may also contact the Office of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education at vpue@berkeley.edu or file a complaint with the Office for the Prevention of Harassment & Discrimination (https://uctitleix.i-sight.com/portal/Berkeley).
For general student support, visit the Office of the Associate Vice Chancellor and Dean of Students’ Well Being resource or the Berkeley Support Portal, which provides more information about resources across campus. To receive support in navigating these resources and establish connections, reach out to deanofstudents@berkeley.edu
I wish each of you a restorative Thanksgiving break, a successful end of term, and a relaxing winter break thereafter.
Fiat Lux & Go Bears!
Benjamin E. Hermalin
Executive Vice Chancellor & Provost
This message has been sent to all students.