U of A Cares Helps Students in Need of Assistance

University of Arkansas students, faculty, staff and others have a place to turn for help when a student is in need of assistance. This past fall the dean of students in the Division of Student Affairs established the “U of A Cares” program to help students. The program makes it easier for faculty, staff and community members to let someone know when a student is in need of assistance or resources.

“In considering recent tragic events such as those at UC-Santa Barbara, we want to remind students, parents and community members that we are here to help and guide those in need of assistance,” said Nicole Ferguson, the U of A Cares case manager for the office of the dean of students. “Our services are not only for students to self-report, but for others who are concerned about a student’s well-being. Many times, we find that people who are in distress simply want a sounding board, someone to listen to their concerns. Listen to your peers and send them to us for help. If you see something, say something.”

Ferguson helps students with everything from personal injuries and financial concerns to mental health issues. Students, faculty, staff and family members can get in contact with U of A Cares through the office on the third floor of the University of Administration building; by phone at 479-575-5004; and through the Report a Concern link on the website uofacares.uark.edu.

“Our campus has excellent resources: CAPS, UAPD, and the dean of students office. Contact U of A Cares if a student, classmate, or friend is displaying behavior that is concerning, and we can bring the right resources to bear,” said Melissa Harwood-Rom, dean of students. “Sharing information is essential for our campus safely experts to assist a student of concern.  If we act as a community, we can be a safe community.”

The U of A Cares program was created as part of a national effort among professionals in student affairs that resulted in creation of the Higher Education Case Managers Association in 2008. The goal was to develop case management programs in universities across the country, and to help develop ways for college campuses across the nation to work with the challenges presented by students in need of services.