CEU has been providing emergency support to students whose studies have been interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. And now, alumni are being asked to help.
The university recently announced a special emergency fund to help provide housing, food, medical and psychological care and tech support for students sheltered at the dorm – many in isolation – trying to complete their studies remotely.
“Most of our students are far from home and unable to return,” CEU President and Rector Michael Ignatieff wrote in a message to alumni. “[This fund] will support essentials and more.”
Alumni wishing to contribute are asked to donate, in any amount, to the CEU Alumni Campaign's Unrestricted Fund. Learn More here.
CEU closed both its Vienna and Budapest campuses due to the pandemic in mid March. It also returned all students from Vienna and New York to Budapest, where many are being housed in the Kerepesi Residence Center. Some are in quarantine.
Since then the university has marshalled its resources to provide for the students, many of whom are facing financial and other challenges to their continued studies.
The emergency fund would allow students who find themselves in “severe financial difficulties” to apply for monetary support. A committee of faculty, staff and students would evaluate requests and disperse funds.
Alumni gifts to the Unrestricted Fund allow the university to meet these student needs quickly and as they arise.
The CEU community has rallied since the crisis intensified this month. Students have delivered food and notes of encouragement to classmates at the dorm. Alumni have provided transport and other assistance to students. The university has made psychological counselling available to students, faculty and staff.
“The last weeks have shown the profound kindness at the heart of our resilient community,” Ignatieff wrote.