Refer a Student

Caring for Our Campus Community

UNC Asheville is committed to fostering a community of care. Throughout their college journey, students may face challenges related to health, academics, personal transitions, or safety, and support is available. If you notice a student in need of support, early action and referral can make a meaningful difference.

This page provides guidance on when and how to refer a student to our team through the Student Support Referral Form. We also offer resources to faculty and staff, students, and parents to help you facilitate helpful conversations and ensure the well-being of students.

Student Support Referral Form
Info for Students
Faculty & Staff Info
Parents & Families Info

The Student Support Referral Form is not to be used in an emergency. If there is an immediate threat to any person or property, call University Police at 828.232.5000 for on-campus emergencies, or 911 for off-campus emergencies. This form is not monitored outside of regular business hours.

What happens after a referral is submitted?

Once submitted, a Student Support Referral is assessed by the Office of the Dean of Students, which assigns the appropriate person for outreach. If additional information is needed or a follow-up is requested, a member of the Office of the Dean of Students may also reach back out to the referrer. If the student accepts an offer of support, a meeting will be scheduled to discuss their situation, needs, and collaborate on a plan for next steps.

Information for Students

College is a time of growth, transition, and change. Sometimes, these changes can be challenging, and you and your peers may need extra support. If you notice a peer experiencing difficulties—whether personal, academic, or related to health or well-being, you can play a role in connecting them to resources. The same is true if you feel that you would benefit from support.

We welcome you to contact us directly or submit a Student Support Referral Form . We also encourage you to utilize the Stepped Care Model as a tool for identifying what resources are available to you on campus for varying levels of need.

Information for Faculty and Staff

Faculty and staff play a vital role in fostering a community of care at UNC Asheville. If you notice concerning changes in a student’s behavior, attendance, academic performance, or overall well-being, we encourage you to check in with the student as appropriate and connect them with campus resources.

If you are unsure how to proceed, please submit a Student Support Referral Form or contact the Office of the Dean of Students for consultation and support. If you are referring a student, we encourage you to share that you are doing so and to be honest with the student about why the observed behaviors are concerning and warrant a referral. This conversation can provide context for the student and ease the anxiety they may feel when contacted by our office.

For additional information on how to identify a student in need of support, please review information on the Stepped Care Model or request a training at dos@unca.edu.

Information for Parents

College is a journey of personal growth, change, and newfound independence. While changes in communication and behavior are often part of this process, some situations may signal that a student needs additional support. If you are concerned about your student’s well-being, academic success, or safety, we encourage you to help them connect with campus resources.

The Office of the Dean of Students works closely with campus partners through a coordinated CARE Team and case management process to support students experiencing personal, academic, or emotional challenges. We look forward to partnering with parents and family members in supporting our students. You are welcome to contact us or submit a Student Support Referral Form if you have concerns.

Understanding Student Privacy

Federal privacy laws (FERPA) limit what the University can share about a student’s records without their consent. However, families are always welcome to share concerns with our office, and we will respond in ways that support student well-being while honoring privacy requirements.

Office of the Dean of Students

Governors Hall

Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Email: dos@unca.edu

Phone: 828.251.6465