Supporting Our Ithaca College Community Amid the California Wildfires

By News, January 10, 2025

Dear Ithaca College Community,

I write to you today amidst the ongoing wildfires impacting the greater Los Angeles area. The enormity of the devastation is keenly felt by our community, not only due to the presence of our ICLA program, but the many members of our college community that call this area home. Whether you have been directly impacted, have loved ones in the region, or are feeling the weight of this immense tragedy from afar, please know that our hearts and thoughts are with you during this incredibly difficult time. 

The college continues to monitor the developing situation and any impacts to the operations of our ICLA campus. At this time, the ICLA campus is not under immediate threat, and we will continue to provide emergency notification to all individuals of our ICLA campus, as needed.

The magnitude of this disaster is difficult to fathom, but we are committed to providing comfort, care, and support to all individuals of our community. I hope that you will not only turn to each other for comfort, but also consider utilizing the numerous resources provided by the college if you are in need of additional support.

Students seeking mental health support are encouraged to connect with the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) by calling (607) 274-3136. Faculty and staff can also access counseling services through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) by calling 1-800-327-2255. I would also like to share awareness of this website dedicated to grief resources sponsored by the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life. If you are a student seeking assistance navigating the supports and resources available to you, please consider submitting an ICare referral.

Students studying at ICLA this semester who have questions or need assistance should email laprogram@ithaca.edu

I encourage any other students impacted directly by these fires to contact the Center for Student Success. This office can help you navigate extenuating circumstances you may be facing as we near the start of the upcoming spring semester. I also remind students of this website highlighting the Student Emergency Relief Fund, the college’s textbook voucher program, and other financial resources to support you in times of crisis. If you require assistance in exploring these financial resources, please contact the Division of Student Affairs and Campus Life at studentaffairs@ithaca.edu or by calling the office at (607) 274-3374.

Let us continue to be there for one another as a community of care during the days ahead.

In support,

La Jerne Terry Cornish
President