Connecting Students to Resources through Care Referrals
KU Student Support & Case Management (SSCM) relies primarily on the submission of Care Referrals to identify students who need outreach. Anyone who has concerns for a student— including peers, staff, faculty, community members, and family members— can fill out the Care Referral form online. Whether it be academic, professional, financial, or personal stressors, the Support & Care Referral Team (SCRT) reviews submitted referrals and connects SSCM with students to offer support.
“When we are able to provide a resource that meets the students' needs at the time, I've noticed they feel more hopeful and empowered to continue to navigate the stress they are experiencing," shared Sharah Davis, case manager for SSCM. "This type of student support builds resilience and shows students that KU cares.”
Most often referred campus resources include:
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) for mental health professional support
- Student Access Center (SAC) for academic accommodations for long term disabilities and diagnoses
- Financial Aid Student Services (FAS) and Emergency Aid Network (EAN) for financial assistance
"SSCM lowers barriers and makes education more accessible, giving support to those who don't know what to do next," shared Mica Jones, a graduate student studying social work from Kinsley, Kan., and practicum student for SSCM. “KU has many beneficial programs and services that many students have no idea exist. SSCM makes it easier for students to get what they need, go to classes, and feel less alone."
Many students seem to agree with Jones' statement. 100 percent of students who completed a survey after attending a SSCM meeting indicated that they felt more knowledgeable about campus resources. These students also agreed that the experience helped them see there are staff and faculty at KU who care about their mental and physical health, as well as academic success.
“Access to resources and support helps students navigate life inside and outside the classroom," shared Anna Kostecki, residential case manager for SSCM. "Through academic support, community connections, and mental healthcare, students deserve the opportunity to feel empowered and reach their potential here at KU.”
Care Referrals can be submitted online by any member of the KU community. The form asks for details about the submitter's concerns. Once submitted, a case manager is assigned to reach out to the student to help them navigate through challenges by providing nonclinical, individualized support; identify and complete next steps; and connect students to resources.
Care Referrals are not suitable for reporting emergencies. To report an emergency, please contact Public Safety at 785-864-5900 or by dialing 911.
SSCM is currently located at Suite 350 of Summerfield Hall. Students in need of support, or KU community members seeking advice in supporting students, can contact SSCM at 785-864-7022 or studentsupport@ku.edu.