Dear UNT community,
As you may know some of our students from Houston and South Texas had plans to arrive in Denton over the weekend, but instead find themselves trapped by the storm with flooded homes and neighborhoods and no way to evacuate. Other students did arrive on campus prior to the storm, but likely are worried about friends and family who are being impacted. And, we also are responding to the higher education needs of students from other universities who may be displaced.
In response to the number of students who have been affected by Hurricane Harvey, we are extending the fall registration period through Sept. 5 (Tuesday) and the payment deadline to Sept. 6 (Wednesday) so that we can be flexible in meeting the needs of our students and their families. If you need additional or ongoing help, please reach out so we can support you in every way that we can. Students, contact your academic advisor with questions about registration and scheduling or the Dean of Students Office at 940-565-2648 or deanofstudents@unt.edu to find out how we can support you in the coming days.
I ask that all of our faculty and staff please be flexible and compassionate with these students. Please be responsive to what they need and do everything you can to help them successfully transition into this semester. Students, look for ways you can provide aid and support to your friends, classmates and fellow residents.
With more rain predicted in the Houston area this week, UNT is equipped and prepared to open an emergency shelter for evacuees, if and when we are asked. Our university is a community of great compassion and we will support the impacted individuals in every way we can. These charities are accepting donations to help survivors rebuild.
Please remember UNT's counseling services for students can be reached by calling 940-565-2741. Faculty and staff can take advantage of our Employee Assistance Program by calling 800-343-3822.
Welcome back to school and please remember to ask for help if you need it. We want to make your fall happen and we will continue to work one-on-one with students to address their evolving needs.
UNT Proud,
Neal Smatresk
President