University providing supports after tragic accident

University counsellors, outreach and support staff, as well as senior administrators, met with students and their families throughout Saturday afternoon to provide help and support for their recovery from the tragic bus crash in which two students lost their lives.

Earlier Saturday, President Jamie Cassels offered the university’s heartfelt condolences and support to those involved in Friday night’s accident. President’s statement.

A bus carrying 45 students and two teaching assistants was on its way to the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre when it left the road.  The Port Alberni RCMP reported that the bus was about 40 kilometres from Port Alberni when the vehicle went down an embankment. Their investigation is continuing.

The university provided a gathering place for family members to reunite with their sons and daughters and to offer assistance and support, both immediate and for the coming days and months. The president was also able to meet with students and family members. 

The entire university is coming together to help at this difficult time. Faculty members, instructors and staff are aware of this traumatic incident and the university will make allowances and provide additional support for students to help them in their studies.

Due to privacy provisions and out of respect to those involved, the university is not disclosing personal information about the students.

Counselling Services will be open on Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm in University Centre for those students that would like to access supports. Faculty and staff can contact the Employee and Family Assistance Program, at 844-880-9142.