Online Student Support Resources

Email from Will Simpkins, Vice President for Student Affairs

March 23, 2020

Dear Roadrunner Students, Faculty and Staff,

I hope this email finds you well wherever you are receiving it and that you and your loved ones are safe as we face this unprecedented health crisis together. I am writing to remind you that many of the student support resources we know our community counts on have moved online, ensuring that students still have access to the programs and resources they need to thrive during this time of uncertainty.  Here are a few we want to make sure students know how to utilize:  

1. With most students at home during Spring Break week, President Janine Davidson will be hosting a student-focused online town hall meeting on Thursday, March 26, at 2 p.m. to answer your questions. You can watch the meeting online on the University’s livestream page. Please submit your questions in advance to make sure the president can respond to as many as possible at the event. 
2. The Health Center at Auraria remains open Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. on Fridays. Please call 303-615-9999 for a medical consultation or to schedule an appointment at the center in Plaza 150. Consultations regarding COVID-19 are free of charge. The Health Center also provides an array of clinical services, including mental-health support.
3. Technology Needs for Class: If you don’t have a personal device other than a cell phone and/or your cell phone is inadequate for your class requirements, visit msudenver.edu/technology/hardware or call 303-352-7548 to request a device. You may be eligible for the Student Emergency Retention Fund to purchase a computer or secure a loaner from the University.
4. The Student Emergency Fund can offer relief for students in dire circumstances so that they can quickly get financial support to pay essential bills and/or obtain necessary supplies. This fund may be of particular value to students who have lost their jobs or work hours due to COVID-19 layoffs. Apply using the link above or call the Student Care Center at 303-615-0006 to speak with a case manager about the process. 
5. The Student Care Center staff is adept at supporting students through some of life’s most challenging circumstances, including housing insecurity, physical- and mental-health stressors, unemployment and other unmet needs. The center can advise on academic and University options available to students as well. Let them know how they can help you or a classmate by emailing [email protected], calling 303-615-0006 or filing a CARE referral. With the Roadrunner Food Pantry currently closed, please contact the MSU Denver Student Care Center if you’re facing food insecurity. In addition to connecting you with community resources such as those offered through Hunger Free Colorado and 2-1-1, the center can offer financial support for purchasing groceries and/or determine your eligibility for a no-cost meal-delivery service. The Care Center will also continue to bring Mobile Food Pantries to campus, including one tomorrow from 9-11 a.m. (or while supplies last) that will be distributing pre-made boxes of supplies from the Auraria Campus Walnut Lot. All MSU Denver students in need are eligible to pick up food, and you can drive or walk up, as social distancing measures will be in place. Check the Roadrunner Food Pantry website for additional resources.
6. Counseling Center: During this period of social isolation, we realize the importance of human connection and attending to our mental health more than ever. Mental-health support (therapy) is available virtually to students through the University’s Counseling Center. To connect with a therapist please call 303-615-9902 and leave a message with your name, telephone number and 900#. For urgent after-hours and weekend needs, call the University’s mental-health crisis line at 303-615-9911 to speak with a trained professional.
7. The Classroom to Career (C2) Hub is available to support your job search needs. We are working to incorporate new job postings into the Career Link database. Career Lab is also going virtual as of Monday, March 23! The lab will be open on reduced hours next week (1-3 p.m. Monday, noon-1 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-noon Wednesday, 2-4 p.m. Thursday), but more information on extended hours will be available March 30. To schedule a virtual appointment, email [email protected].
8. Center for Equity and Student Achievement (CESA) is prepared to assist you virtually, including programming for First-Gen Initiatives, Immigrant Services and the LGBTQ Student Resource Center. Please email [email protected] or visit the CESA website for more information.
9. The Phoenix Center at Auraria is offering a full range of services while campus operates remotely. Schedule an appointment for Zoom or telephone, contact an advocate, or visit their social media for info on Sexual Assault Awareness Month or other activities. The helpline is open 24/7 at 303-556-2255.
10. Collegiate Recovery Community continues to offer peer-to-peer connection, resources, activities and sober fun for anyone who needs assistance. Meetings are Monday/Thursday from 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Zoom. Monday’s meeting ID is 603 672 201 and Thursday’s meeting ID is 245 022 889. The password for both sessions is ARC. For immediate support, contact the Auraria after-hours crisis line at 303-615-9911 or text TALK to 38255. For more information, email [email protected].

Please use spring break week to get some rest. Look out for yourselves, your personal, physical and mental health, and each other, and know that we’re still here to support you! 

Sincerely, 

-Will

Will Simpkins, Ed.D.

Vice President for Student Affairs

Jordan Student Success Building, Suite 330

[email protected]

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Pronouns: He/Him/His