The spring 2020 semester is in full swing and I would like to take this opportunity to remind us all of the resources available in the event that you encounter students in distress, disruptive student behavior, or students facing other personal challenges.  

First and foremost, the College of Staten Island has many mechanisms in place to promote an environment of personal well-being and campus safety. At the same time, we must always be prepared to respond to individuals and situations that require intervention. To that end, please be aware of the following:

The Office of Public Safety.  If at any time you encounter a student or situation that requires an immediate response, you should contact Public Safety at 718.982.2111 or dial 911. Public Safety is the only entity on campus that can provide an immediate, emergency-based response. Public Safety is located in Building 2A, Room 108. To learn more about services provided by Public Safety, please visit their Website.

Incident Reporting.  If at any time you encounter a student or situation that is a cause for concern but does not require an immediate response, you may report as listed below.

  • Contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.  Staff members are available to address disruptive student behavior that is in potential violation of College policy. To report behaviors that are disruptive to teaching and learning or College operations, or critical student concerns, such as food insecurity or homelessness, please contact either Danielle Dimitrov, Interim Executive Director of Student Services, at danielle.dimitrov@csi.cuny.edu or Ashley Ware, Student Conduct and Services Specialist, at ashley.ware@csi.cuny.edu. Both of us can be reached by phone at 718-982-2335. 
  • Campus Assessment Referral and Evaluation System (CARES) Team. The purpose of the CARES Team is to provide early intervention and response in situations where students are experiencing distress or engaging in harmful or disruptive behaviors.  To report concerning student behavior to the CARES Team, please visit the CARES Webpage and fill out an online reporting form.

Campus Resources.  The College of Staten Island has offices and resources designed to assist students in academic and personal distress. We encourage faculty and staff to contact the following offices with questions or concerns related to students:   

  • Counseling Center. The Counseling Center offers personal and academic counseling services to matriculated students. It is located in Building 1A, Room 109. For guidance in helping students in emotional distress, please go online for additional information.
  • Health and Wellness Services. Health and Wellness Services provides a variety of programs and services designed to promote healthy lifestyles and general wellness. Health and Wellness Services is located in the Campus Center (Building 1C), Room 112. For more information, see their Website.  

Best wishes for a successful semester.

By Danielle Dimitrov, Esq.