Dear Scripps College Students, Faculty, and Staff,
As we approach the end of what has been an arduous year for our community, it is critical to acknowledge the cumulative impact of simultaneous national crises—the COVID-19 pandemic, a faltering economy, and racial injustice and inequality—on our individual and collective health and well-being. The national election next week introduces yet another potential stressor as we contemplate the future of our country and our role as participants in the United States democracy amidst an increasingly polarized political climate.
Civic engagement is a tradition and cornerstone of the Scripps educational experience. From our founder Ellen Browning Scripps’ involvement in the women’s suffrage movement, to the countless examples of student activism for social justice and change across generations, to the volunteerism and partnership with community-based organizations, Scripps community members are advocates and vigorous participants in shaping our communities. We applaud all of the ways that you are leaning in to your power as changemakers, influencers, and organizers during this election season.
In the coming weeks, we invite the community to participate in educational programming opportunities designed to offer space to examine the outcomes of the election and its implications for individuals and communities. An overview of this programming and opportunities to engage in self-care is provided here. Invitations and additional details will be provided in the days and weeks to come.
We urge all members of our community to be patient and flexible with one another. We all are facing varying levels of stress, and our responses to stress will differ depending on myriad factors. Faculty are encouraged to be accommodating with students and to think about ways to integrate pre-election, election, and post-election issues/discussions within the context of the curriculum.
As we navigate this stressful time, we encourage students, faculty, and staff to prioritize your mental health and exhibit compassion for your classmates and colleagues. Please take advantage of the resources available to support your mental and emotional health. A summary of wellness resources for Scripps students can be found here. Faculty and staff wellness resources can be found here.
We acknowledge the many students, faculty, staff, and alumnae who are participating in efforts to maximize voter participation, and we encourage those who are able to cast your vote in the next few days if you haven’t already. Scripps College’s values of education, community, and engagement have been consistent levers for the change we seek in our world. These are values we all should promote as we look to the future.
Be well,
Lara Tiedens, President
Amy Marcus-Newhall, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty
Charlotte Johnson, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students