President Brodhead Issues Message on Katrina
Duke officials exploring where assistance can be most effective
Thursday, September 1, 2005
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Durham, N.C. -- To the Duke Campus Community:
Eight months ago we were shocked by the scope of devastation from the tsunami in South Asia. This week we have experienced natural disaster much closer to home from the assault of Hurricane Katrina. I know I speak on behalf of the whole Duke community when I offer our sympathy, prayers, and willingness to help all those affected by the storm. In this case, as with the tsunami, the need for help will be ongoing.
As the situation clarifies itself in the next few days, groups from the university and the Duke University Health System will continue to confer to see how our help can be most effective. Many student groups and other members of the Duke community are discussing how they might be helpful. University officials have already begun discussing how Duke can help the students and faculty of universities that have been closed by the storm. In addition, there will be ongoing need for blood donations, food, medical attention, and other support this community may be able to supply. A new website is being developed to provide updated information on Duke efforts and ways community members can offer assistance. It will be active tomorrow. I have asked Vice President Larry Moneta to coordinate efforts on the campus side; Chancellor Victor Dzau has asked Pamela Sutton-Wallace and Vicki Saito to hold these responsibilities in the Health System. We expect to be able to report to the campus community tomorrow, the broad outline of activities in which we will be engaged.
Times of trouble teach us the powers we have to be of help; they also remind us how much we would need such help if we were on the other end of this catastrophe. I am grateful for the good heart with which I know Duke will respond to this emergency.
Best wishes,
Richard Brodhead, President
