Following the introduction of Yaroslav Hunka on September 22 in the Canadian House of Commons, the university began a review of a $30,000 endowment fund that existed in Mr. Hunka’s name. In 2019, Mr. Hunka’s family provided the donation to the Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies at the university. Endowments can be named for the donor or someone else they choose.
After careful consideration of the complexities, experiences, and circumstances of those impacted by the situation, we have made the decision to close the endowment and return the funds to the donor. The university recognizes and regrets the unintended harm caused.
On behalf of the university, I want to express our commitment to address anti-Semitism in any of its manifestations, including the ways in which the Holocaust continues to resonate in the present. The university’s core values include a commitment to academic integrity and to inclusivity in its research, teaching, and community-building efforts.
As part of this commitment, the university is in the process of reviewing its general naming policies and procedures, including those for endowments, to ensure alignment with our values. I understand that many of our community members may require dedicated services and support. If you or someone you support needs assistance, resources or someone to talk to, please be aware of the services available to our community (below).
Verna Yiu, Interim Provost and Vice-President (Academic)
Supportive resources for University of Alberta community members:
- Any community member who is experiencing harm or concerns is encouraged to reach out to their supervisor as well as the Office of the Vice-Provost (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion), which includes Helping Individuals at Risk, the Office of Safe Disclosure & Human Rights and the Office of the Student Ombuds; the Student Service Centre; and/or the Staff Service Centre.
- Students can also access a range of services available:
- 211 for free, 24/7 confidential assistance.
- Interfaith Chaplains’ Association, every chaplain is professionally trained and appointed by communities of faith.
- Wellness Supports connects students to resources on campus and in the community. You can access one-on-one support by emailing wellness@ualberta.ca.
- Counselling and Clinical Services provides accessible and compassionate services to students to improve personal, social and academic well-being. Current students residing in Alberta can set up a counseling session by calling 780-492-5205 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Peer Support Centre (Help Line: 780-492-4357; psc@su.ualberta.ca) offers free, confidential and non-judgmental supports by trained peer volunteers.
- The Graduate Student Assistance Program offers Homewood Health services 24/7.
- Employees can also access 24/7 support through the Employee and Family Assistance Program.