Dear Partners,
As the war in the Ukraine continues to unfold, we wanted to provide you with an update on how API is responding to these tragic and horrific events. First, our hearts and minds continue to be with those who are needlessly suffering as a result of this unprovoked invasion of a peaceful, sovereign nation. As we watch families being displaced from their homes and fighting for their lives with all of the courage and love that they are showing towards each other, we realize how important it is for people around the world to support them in any way possible.
I noted with awe the number of amazing charities to which our employees and our college and university partners are donating to support the Ukrainian people. This is very much aligned with our purpose and values to put people at the center of everything we do. As such, API has made the decision to match every employee donation to support Ukraine. It is incredibly inspiring to see how all of you have responded, and we are honored and privileged to be part of this community of educators.
We will continue monitoring the Ukraine war in real-time for the safety of our students. At this point in time, all of our students are in good hands and are safely completing their spring session programs. Below, please find more details about the steps we are taking to ensure the health and safety of our students who are currently on programs.
Again, I want to thank all of you for everything you do! We are so honored to be part of this incredible community – you make all the hard work worthwhile.
Sincerely,
Patrick
Ensuring the Health and Safety of our Students
API continues to monitor the situation in Ukraine in order to ensure the health and safety of our participants. Although API does not have programming in either Russia or Ukraine, we are closely monitoring this situation in real-time, particularly with regard to our programs in bordering Hungary and Poland. Our spring session programs in nearby countries have been proceeding without interruption. The health and safety of our participants are our highest priority, and we always work to ensure that our participants can safely and comfortably continue in their program. In consultation with our teams and resources on-site, as well as analysis from our insurance travel security provider, the OSAC, and the U.S. State Department, we do not feel that there is any need to modify our current or future programming at this time. The U.S. State Department has not altered its travel advice for any neighboring countries of Ukraine.
All of our participants in the region have been informed of the situation and given the following advice:
- Do not travel to Ukraine.
- When you do take independent trips, pay attention to the news so you will be informed of any developments that might impact your travel.
- Be sure you’ve reported your independent travel to API.
- As always, we advise that you avoid any public demonstrations, and this would include anything related to this conflict.
- Stay on top of your emails and text messages, especially any from your Resident Director(s) or other API staff members. If you are asked to respond to the message, do so promptly.
- Our Resident Directors are in frequent contact with our students to reassure them of our support and ensure they are aware of any developments.
We will continue to closely monitor this developing situation, and we will send updates as needed to keep you informed.
As always, please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
