President Philip J. Hanlon ’77 is encouraging students, faculty, and staff to spend Friday, Oct. 21, in a day of reflection and connection as Dartmouth grieves the recent loss of some community members.
Classes have been suspended for the Day of Caring on Oct. 21, and participation in offerings that day is entirely optional.
“I invite all of you to participate in a variety of programs and gatherings intended to allow time and space for self-care,” President Hanlon says in an email sent today to the Dartmouth community. “We all have different ways of caring for ourselves and those around us, so the program will offer a range of opportunities to explore well-being, growth, and connection with one another.”
Among the offerings planned are:
- “walk and talks” around Occom Pond and Pine Park;
- yoga in Berry Library;
- a session on grief;
- community lunch (pick-up in the lobby of Baker Library);
- a “Navigating the Network of Care” program for students;
- mental health training for faculty and staff;
- and a community update on the Jed Foundation initiative to bolster mental health services and resources on campus.
“I encourage you to do what feels right for you on that day, whether it’s joining a walk around Occom Pond, finding out about wellness resources, gathering on the Green for lunch and a chat, or spending time on your own for private reflection,” Hanlon says in his email. “Ultimately, the Day of Caring is a day for you.”
A full schedule of on-campus and virtual events will be posted on the Office of the President website. Alternate venues will be in place for some activities in case of inclement weather.
