Articles

Standing with Those Affected by the Ukraine-Russia War

Mar 7, 2022

Dear HCC Community,

As an institution of higher education, Houston Community College (HCC) proudly embraces all students, faculty, and staff, including those from around the world. HCC has long led the nation’s community colleges in international student enrollment – today over 2,400 dedicated international students, including those from Ukraine and Russia. Notably, HCC helps its students collaboratively engage in educational pursuits with the intent of building a bright future and making the world a better place to live.

Unfortunately, as we embrace the hopes and dreams of our students and value the dedication of our employees, including those from Ukraine and Russia, a war rages in Ukraine, casting clouds of disruption, despair, and uncertainty. While Ukrainian citizens flee their homeland and many stay behind to fight for their country’s independence, we are saddened by the unfolding destruction. We also observe in the media that many of the Russian people find the war unjust and are voicing their disapproval.

As the world watches events evolve, our focus is on those whom we serve at HCC and those that help in that service – some who are impacted by this conflict. While the complexity of this matter may extend beyond our current comprehension, we are no less concerned with the well-being of our students, employees and their families.

During times of crisis the HCC family always rises to support one another, and we do that today for our students and colleagues impacted by the conflict. As we hope for a swift and just outcome, I offer the words of Nelson Mandela who profoundly said that Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. Let us use what we learn at HCC, and during the course of our lives for positive change here and around the world.

Sincerely,

Cesar Maldonado, Ph.D., P.E.
Chancellor