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Editor’s note: The following is a memorandum President Welty sent to the campus community in September. To date, more than $16,000 has been collected by a variety of campus organizations.
To: Campus Community
From: John D. Welty, President
Subject: Hurricane Relief
Hurricane Katrina has been called the greatest natural disaster to ever hit the United States. Now Hurricane Rita has impacted the lives of millions of additional Americans and towns and cities across Texas and Louisiana have joined the millions already devastated by Katrina.
Approximately three weeks ago, I announced the Fresno State Hurricane Relief Project. The goal of this university-wide project is to have every single member of our university community (students, staff, faculty and administration) contribute at least $1 towards the needs of those whose lives have been forever altered by Hurricane Katrina. Estimates are that our campus-wide effort has already raised in excess of $16,000, but Hurricane Rita has raised the bar and we must consider how we can all do more to support those in need. Here is how you can help:
1) Donate a minimum of $1 to the Fresno State Hurricane Relief Project. One hundred percent of all donations will be given to various agencies involved in the relief efforts. If you would like, you can send your donation directly to M/S SB 120, c/o Fresno State Hurricane Relief Project. (Please make checks payable to "Fresno State Foundation" with "Hurricane Relief Fund" in the memo section.) You can also deliver your donation directly to Science Building I (old Science), Room 136 or call 278-7079 to have someone come to your office to pick-up the donation.
2) Coordinate a donation collection event in your class, department, or office. "Passing the hat" in classes is probably the very best way to reach our students. It also sends a strong message that our staff and faculty are committed to this effort and to our civic responsibility to help others in need.
3) Donate your time and professional expertise. The American Red Cross is requesting disaster volunteers to assist with their emergency sheltering mission. The greatest need is for medical and mental health professionals, yet others are also encouraged to apply. For details, please contact Sharon Martinez at the Fresno Chapter of the American Red Cross by calling 559.455.1000.
4) Finally, spread the word. We as educators can use this "teachable moment" to engage our students in important discussions and help get them thinking and acting with respect to community need. I hope that you will consider ways that you can spread the word about the Fresno State Hurricane Relief Project and use this event as a way to help our students grow intellectually and personally.
If you would like more information about the Fresno State Hurricane Relief Project, please contact Chris Fiorentino at chrisf@csufresno or by calling 278.7079.