Since Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in late August and now Hurricane Rita in late September, we have all seen pictures and heard stories of devastation beyond our comprehension. Through the destruction, we have also seen examples of great generosity and caring across the country and right here at MCC.
Let me take a moment to thank everyone at MCC who has contributed to the relief efforts. Many of you have opened your wallets and pocketbooks. The Nursing Department collected health kits of basic necessities for distribution in New Orleans via the United Methodist Committee on Relief. Under the auspices of Rochester Poets and the International Rescue Committee, Transitional Studies Instructor Julie Damerell and others read poems from “In the Arms of Words: Poems for Tsunami Relief” at a fundraiser for Katrina victims. Assistant Professor of Business Administration/ Economics Carmen Powers and students in her MAR 203 and 101 classes are applying marketing concepts as they survey students about what kind of fundraiser might inspire their participation; they are now working toward organizing that fundraiser. The Dental Clinic is offering preferential teeth cleaning appointments to relocated Katrina victims and Associate Professor of Dental Studies Dr. David Lawrence has made arrangements with some local dentists to provide routine dental work for free. From October 3-7, the Travel and Tourism Club, the Hospitality Club and Reflections Restaurant are raising funds in conjunction with the National Restaurant Association’s Dine for America campaign to support the victims of Hurricane Katrina. As you can see, the efforts are diverse and creative.
I know there are many other departments, programs and organizations with fundraising and service ideas in the works. I thank you all for your compassion and encourage your continued attention to the needs in the South. Recovering from two devastating hurricanes will require this country’s unwavering attention for many months.
Thank you for all you do for MCC.
P.S. If you have a project in the works, please let us know by emailing Director of Public Affairs Cynthia Cooper at "mailto:ccooper@monroecc.edu"ccooper@monroecc.edu .
R. Thomas Flynn
President
09/28/2005 |