As our city, state, and nation learn more about the tragic death of Tyre Nichols following a brutal attack at the hands of Memphis law enforcement, we strive to understand the senseless violence. We want to ensure our campus community members that their health and safety are our utmost priority and support is available for anyone needing assistance.
We understand that many may be experiencing distress, anxiety, and grief as a result of this most recent event. It was heartbreaking, frightening, and infuriating.
Approximately 17% of our student body is from the Memphis area – much more when you include the surrounding counties.
Many may be feeling a heightened sense of helplessness, and we urge every member of the campus community to show an abundance of compassion in the knowledge that some are working through this emotional process. Additionally, please remember these services are available:
The Counseling Center will offer individual or group counseling sessions for students during the Center’s regular hours of operation. To make an appointment, students should call (423) 425-4438 or visit University Center, Room 338 between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM.
The Office of Student Outreach & Support is also available for support. Faculty, staff, and students can share names of individuals they are concerned about (students, faculty, or staff) by submitting a Community Member of Concern Form (www.utc.edu/coc), emailing sos@utc.edu, or calling (423) 425-2299.
Students experiencing crisis after hours should be referred to the UTC CARE line at (423) 425-CARE (2273) to be connected to after-hours services including crisis counseling.
Support is available to employees through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Employees and their eligible dependents who may be experiencing personal or workplace problems, regardless of whether they participate in the Group Insurance Program, may access the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). EAP services are provided at no cost and all services are strictly confidential and can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 1-855-HERE4TN (1-855-437-3486). The EAP can help with issues such as family and relationships; child and elder care; anxiety and depression; workplace conflicts; dealing with addiction; grief and loss; legal and financial issues; work/life balance. Individuals receive up to five (5) free counseling sessions per episode at no cost to the participant; however, sessions must be pre-authorized by calling phoning 1-855-HERE4TN (1-855-437-3486).
If you become aware of anyone needing extra support at this time, please do not hesitate to guide them toward resources that can help. Our sense of community at UTC is what makes this a special place, and it is our bond through tragedy that makes us stronger.
