Early Bird

Ongoing support for MSU Denver students

Many resources have moved online, ensuring that students still have access to the programs and assistance they need to thrive.

March 24, 2020

On Monday, Will Simpkins, Ed.D., vice president for Student Affairs, sent an email to students, faculty and staff with updates on navigating this unprecedented health crisis. Many of the student support resources 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, Ph.D., will be hosting a student-focused online town hall meeting on Thursday, March 26, at 2 p.m. to answer questions. Watch the meeting online on the University’s livestream page. 
2. The Health Center at Auraria remains open Monday-Thursday from 8m.-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: Students who don’t have a personal device other than a cell phone, and/or their cell phone is inadequate for class requirements, should visit msudenver.edu/technology/hardware or call 303-352-7548 to request a device. They 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. Students should email studentcarecenter@msudenver.edu, call 303-615-0006 or file a CARE referral. With the Roadrunner Food Pantry currently closed, students facing food insecurity should contact the MSU Denver Student Care Center. In addition to connecting students 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 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 via drive up 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 303-615-9902and 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 students' job search needs. Staff are working to incorporate new job postings into the Career Link. The Career Lab is also virtual as of 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. Students can schedule a virtual appointment by emailing C2Hub@msudenver.edu. 
8. The Center for Equity and Student Achievement (CESA) is prepared to assist students virtually, including programming for First-Gen Initiatives, Immigrant Services and the LGBTQ Student Resource Center. Students should email cesa@msudenver.edu or visit the CESA website for more information. 
9. The Phoenix Center at Auraria is offering a full range of services while campus operates. 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 recoverycommunityinfo@gmail.com.