Monday, May 16, the Association of American Universities hosted a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on how America’s universities and Ukrainian officials and educators can work together to help rebuild and transform Ukraine’s decimated higher education sector. President Zelenskyy outlined his vision for Ukraine and spoke about the Ukrainian Global University, which brings together an international network of institutions to help displaced Ukrainian students and scholars continue their education and research. View the recording here.
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On February 24, 2022, military forces of the Russian Federation launched a full-scale armed assault against Ukraine. This invasion has resulted in the destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, whole cities, and the deaths of innocent civilians. It has brought distress to Ukrainians both in the country and around the globe, including members of our Harvard community. The conflict has also created fear and uncertainty among students, staff, and faculty who are from Russia, Belarus and elsewhere in the region, among their friends and family, and indeed among all of us. The information on this page is intended to provide an overview of Harvard’s response, point to University resources available to those seeking assistance, and offer useful links for those looking for ways to learn more or get involved.
February 28, 2022
Let me begin by offering my thanks to the Davis Center and the Ukrainian Research Institute, its co-sponsors, and our panelists. Universities are built to bring people together, and technology has increased our capacity to draw audiences from around the world. This gathering exemplifies our convening strength—and its tremendous value.
On Friday, I wrote the director and executive director of the Harvard Ukrainian Research Institute of my deep concern about the capricious and senseless invasion of Ukraine. Since then, the situation has deteriorated further. Over the weekend, members of our community rallied at the heart of our campus and spoke clearly and forcefully against the crisis.
Now is a time for all voices to be raised.
The deplorable actions of Vladimir Putin put at risk the lives of millions of people and undermine the concept of sovereignty. Institutions devoted to the perpetuation of democratic ideals and to the articulation of human rights have a responsibility to condemn such wanton aggression.
Harvard will continue to support in whatever ways we can members of our community who face grave uncertainty. We will continue to share knowledge of Ukraine and advance understanding of its culture, history, and language. And we will continue to speak against cruelty, and to act with compassion as we hold to hope for resolution—and for liberation.
Today the Ukrainian flag flies over Harvard Yard. Harvard University stands with the people of Ukraine.
Thank you.
Opening remarks at the Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies and Ukrainian Research Institute at Harvard University event, Rapid Response Panel: Ukraine Under Attack.
Read the statement on the President’s website.
The daily headlines can make it hard to meet daily deadlines. For information on academic accommodations or other resources, we encourage you to reach out to your School contact below:
The war in Ukraine has significantly disrupted international financial systems, which may make it difficult for those who depend on funding from home to continue to receive that support. It may also make it difficult to send money home. Students who are experiencing financial distress or are worried about potential problems should seek to take advantage of their Schools’ existing programs to provide assistance to those in need.
The Center for Hellenic Studies (CHS), in partnership with the Minda de Gunzburg Center for European Studies (CES), is accepting applications for its joint Harvard Summer Stay in Washington, DC initiative. This opportunity is open to Harvard College students impacted by the war in Ukraine and who wish to live in Washington, DC for the summer (May 20-August 20). Accepted students will receive a travel grant of $650, a $500/month allowance for incidentals, shared accommodation at the Center for Hellenic Studies’ DC campus, and weekday lunches.
Access the application and more information here.
The invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the greatest refugee crisis in Europe since the end of World War II. Among those displaced by the war, many are professors, scientists, scholars, writers, and others affiliated with Ukraine’s approximately 400 institutions of higher education. Harvard is committed to finding ways to support to these and other academics whose lives have been disrupted by the war.
Suggestions or additions for this page? Email [email protected].
