UTSA community members reach out to Japan earthquake, tsunami victims
Earthquake and tsunami devastation in Japan
Earthquake and tsunami devastation in Japan
Share this Story(March 14, 2011)--With news reports detailing the effects of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, efforts are continuing to rescue survivors and manage damaged nuclear reactors. As recovery efforts continue, UTSA is reaching out to students from Japan, students studying abroad and a number of faculty and staff members affected by the disaster.
More than 20 UTSA students are from Japan, as well as several faculty and staff members. Additionally, two UTSA Education Abroad students in southern Japan checked in with the Office of International Programs on Friday, March 11. The students reported they are "feeling safe," according to Holly Hill, UTSA director of education abroad services. Both students plan to continue their programs.
"We have the people of Japan in our hearts and minds in this time of tragedy and hardship," said UTSA President Ricardo Romo. "We have reached out to our students from Japan and are offering support from UTSA Counseling Services. We keep their families and friends in our thoughts and prayers, and we want to help ensure our students have the services they need."
UTSA Counseling Services is available to students who want to talk about feelings or concerns related to the events in Japan. Any UTSA student experiencing distress -- such as difficulty with eating, sleeping or the ability to concentrate on school, thoughts of worry and helplessness, or concern for the safety of family and loved ones -- should get in touch with a counselor. The services are free and confidential.
- At the Main Campus, call 210-458-4140 or go to Recreation and Wellness Center Room 1.810.
- At the Downtown Campus, call 210-458-2930 or go to Buena Vista Street Building Room 1.308.
"UTSA students from Japan who need travel advice, possible employment authorization, document replacement or possible visa extensions should call or arrange an appointment with an international student adviser," said Tanya Orndorff, UTSA director of international student services.
"On behalf of the East Asia Institute, I would like to offer my sincere concern and sympathy for those who are deeply affected in the earthquake and tsunami areas in Japan," said Mimi Yu, associate director of the UTSA East Asia Institute. "In addition to addressing the issues for the misplaced families and businesses, Japan will be on the long road to recovery in terms of rebuilding the Tohoku area."
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Online resources
- Donate through American Red Cross.
- Donate to American Red Cross by texting REDCROSS to 90999. (This makes a $10 donation to help those affected by the Japan earthquake and Pacific tsunami; the charge will go on your mobile phone bill.)
- Google People Finder (to help find people in Japan, search by name or check in a person who has been located)
- U.S. State Department (information for those traveling to Japan)
- E-mail the U.S. State Department (assistance in locating U.S. citizens in Japan
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (travel advisory for Japanese and other foreign nationals from the Pacific stranded in the United States)
- Consulate General of Japan at Houston (updated information as available)
- NHK News (Japan public broadcasting)
- Visualize the devastation: before and after satellite photos, New York Times
- UTSA East Asia Institute
Events
Interested in wellbeing programs, events and resources? Every Wednesday at noon you can stop by virtually and ask any questions you may have about Student Health Services, Counseling and Mental Health Services, and the PEACE office.
Virtual EventFloor captains play a critical role in emergency preparedness, safety awareness and crime prevention techniques throughout the university. They focus on safety and security initiatives while providing guidance and direction to building occupants. During emergency activations, they assist with required evacuations and reentry, shelter-in-place commands, interface with police and other first responders, and help those who may require assistancer.
MyTraining WebinarRoadrunners who plan to learn, teach, live, work or research at UTSA this summer are invited to attend one of these town halls where members of UTSA's Public Health Task Force will share updates from their recently released 4.0 report. The town halls will be a terrific opportunity to ask questions and learn more about summer campus operations.
Virtual EventVictory celebrations in San Antonio always include honking car horns, and we are carrying that tradition over to UTSA. If you are in San Antonio, join us for a nostalgic Commencement Drive around the Main Campus. This new tradition began in May 2020 and will begin at the Brackenridge (BK 5) parking lot adjacent to the Child Development Center. Vehicles can begin gathering at 5:00 p.m. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m.
Virtual EventCollege-based ceremonies will be held on campus at various locations on campus for graduates who earned their degrees in 2020. While the ceremonies will look different than in past years, they retain many of the traditional celebratory aspects to rightfully honor our graduating students. More information can be found at utsa.edu/commencement.
Campus Rec, UTSA Main CampusCollege-based ceremonies will be held on campus at various locations on campus for graduates who earned their degrees in 2020. While the ceremonies will look different than in past years, they retain many of the traditional celebratory aspects to rightfully honor our graduating students. More information can be found at utsa.edu/commencement.
Convocation Center, UTSA Main CampusCollege-based ceremonies will be held on campus at various locations on campus for graduates who earned their degrees in 2020. While the ceremonies will look different than in past years, they retain many of the traditional celebratory aspects to rightfully honor our graduating students. More information can be found at utsa.edu/commencement.
Campus Rec, UTSA Main Campus
