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Remembrance and resilience

One year ago, the Carolina community was shook by the loss of Zijie Yan, associate professor in the applied physical sciences department. Tar Heels came together around the world and demonstrated resilience to recognize a profound loss and support one another.

Below, read about Yan's legacy and how Tar Heels are honoring him daily through their resilience. Additionally, as the anniversary of this tragic event may be difficult for many, know there are mental health resources available on campus.

Carolina remembers a ‘brilliant’ professor

Yan was hired at Carolina in 2019 and quickly made an impact in his lab, where researchers used laser beams to manipulate nanoparticles. Peers described him as brave, insightful and kind, and a publication highlighting his work referred to him as “a master of light and matter.”

One year later, learn what colleagues remember about Yan and his impact on the applied physical sciences department and his field.

Zijie Yan

Bell Tower chiming

On Wednesday, the Bell Tower will chime with Hark the Sound at 1:15 p.m. in honor of Yan’s memory. Recognizing Yan’s legacy is an important way we can come together as a community to acknowledge the loss we feel and to support one another.

In a campus message earlier this week, Chancellor Lee H. Roberts wrote about the ways the Carolina community can come together to support one another.

Read Roberts’ message and learn more about campus resources.

Bell Tower

Carolina resources

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    Counseling and Psychological Services

    Carolina's Counseling and Psychological Services is strongly committed to addressing the mental health needs of the student body through timely access to consultation and connection to clinically appropriate services.

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    Heels Care Network

    A gateway for mental health and wellness resources for everyone on campus, the Heels Care Network shares information for how to navigate anniversaries of trauma.

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    Employee Assistance Program

    If you need help, the UNC-Chapel Hill Employee Assistance Program is available. The EAP is a confidential counseling and resource program that is designed to help University employees and their families deal with both personal and work-related concerns.

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    Healing after trauma

    There's no specific timeline for seeking help after trauma. Carolina provides several resources to assist.