Care Team
What We Do
The Care Team meets weekly to review student concerns reported by the campus community. The committee works to:
- Identify potential risk
- Assess safety concerns for the student and the broader community
- Develop and implement response and support plans
The overall goal is to create thoughtful interventions that mitigate risk over time and help students remain safe, supported, and on track toward graduation.
Our Mission
The Connect, Assess, Resource, and Evaluate team (CARE) is dedicated to the mission of the University by providing early intervention for students whose patterns of behaviors pose a concern to his/hers overall well-being, health, and safety, or to the safety of the University community. Care Team is empowered by the Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students to make decisions regarding a student’s status within the University community.
As the eyes and ears of our community, it is everyone’s responsibility to take action and assist those students who show any type of behavior that could threaten their own safety or the well-being of the University community. We all play a vital role in ensuring the safety of our students. The CARE strongly encourages you to utilize its referral services to continue to better our students and to further enhance our community.
What to Report
In general, any behavior that causes concern for a student’s well-being should be reported. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Suicidal ideations
- Substance abuse
- Physical health concerns (harm to self, eating disorders, lack of sleep, etc.)
- Mental health concerns (panic attacks, anxiety, depression, etc.)
- Poor academic performance
- Death of a loved one
- Financial hardships
- Relational issues or family crisis
- Sexual assaults (see Title IX information)
- Behavior that may pose a threat to the Concordia University Irvine community
- Overall concerns about a student’s well-being, including behaviors outside typical patterns (e.g., disengagement, isolation, withdrawal from normal activities)
ACC will respond as soon as possible to reports; however, the committee may not be able to provide an immediate response in all situations.
Report a Student of Concern
All reports are confidential and go directly to the Director of Student Conduct & Care. Important: If there is an immediate safety concern or threat, contact 911 or Campus Security right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if I know a student who may need to be referred to the CARE process?
If you know a student who may need assistance, please complete the referral form and provide as much information as possible to help the committee respond appropriately.
Who can make an CARE referral?
Anyone can make a referral. Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to submit concerns related to mental health, academic progress, substance use, or other concerning behaviors.
Should I approach the student first?
This depends on the situation. Please consult with the Director of Student Conduct, Chair of the CARE, to determine the best approach.
What if I’m not sure whether I should report a concern?
When in doubt, err on the side of caution and submit a referral. Your input may help provide a more complete picture of the situation.
Can I submit a referral anonymously?
Yes. Anonymous referrals are accepted, though providing your name allows the committee to follow up if additional information is needed.
What happens after I submit a referral?
The Director of Student Conduct receives the referral and may contact you for follow-up. The CARE reviews concerns during weekly meetings and determines appropriate action steps.
What happens to the student in the CARE process?
Students may be connected with campus resources such as Residential Education, the Wellness Center, Writing Center, Student Success Services, and others as appropriate.
Will I know how the situation is resolved?
To protect student privacy, specific outcomes may not be shared. You may be contacted if your involvement is needed to support the student.
Who has access to CARE information?
CARE information is protected under FERPA and shared only with individuals who have a legitimate educational need to know.
Do I need student consent to share concerns?
FERPA allows employees to share student information with appropriate university officials in cases of health or safety concerns.
Tip: Never promise confidentiality to a student during the CARE referral process.
Committee Members
The CARE Team includes the following core members:
- RHO Resident Director / Director of Student Conduct
- Vice President for Student Affairs / Dean of Students
- Associate Dean of Student Wellness
- Associate Dean of Student Development
- Lead Campus Pastor
- Director of Campus Safety
- Head Athletic Trainer
- Director of Residential Education & Housing Services
- CAPS Clinical Supervisor
- Director of Disability Access Services