November 24, 2015

The recent violence in Paris has gripped our attention.  We are grateful that no Purdue-WL students were affected by the tragic attacks even as we are sympathetic to those who are suffering.  Safety and security of students is our highest priority.  While we continue to monitor the situation in France as well as other parts of the world, we are also confident in the support of our partnering staff for the information and care that they provide to students.  

This is another poignant reminder that everyday decisions made by students abroad are of tantamount importance to their safety and well-being.  We continue to encourage students to heed the advice of Purdue professors in program leadership and/or program staff on-site. Further, we would echo the advice of the US State Department, including wisdom that "...U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance in public transportation systems, high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, shopping malls, and other tourist destinations...."    More recently, a Worldwide Travel Alert was announced, urging travelers to exercise caution and vigilance in a similar fashion.  Worldwide Travel Alert   

Please know that fall, winter break, spring break and summer study abroad programs will continue as planned.  By "as planned," this includes all ongoing preparation by leadership including appropriate steps for risk mitigation and other crisis management arrangements.  There is no evidence at this time that students' learning or safety will be in jeopardy. Students should feel comfortable discussing any questions or concerns with their program leader.  Some students may wish to consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance in case of voluntary or involuntary withdrawal. Furthermore, inasmuch as my role is associated with all study abroad programs at Purdue, any reader is welcomed to contact me as well in addition to referencing Safety and Security website resources.   

We wish the next outgoing cohorts of students all success, coupled with confidence that significant planning is in place.

Respectfully,

Brian D. Harley, Ph.D.
Associate Dean, International Programs;
Director, Programs for Study Abroad
Purdue University (West Lafayette, Indiana)