Widener University Community Assists Katrina Victims

"As a university community, we mourn the losses suffered by the victims of this unimaginable tragedy. It is during times like these that you realize just how vulnerable we are, and the importance of uniting to help our fellow human beings."

--Dr. James T. Harris III, president of Widener University

CHESTER, PA (September 1, 2005) -- Members of Widener University’s four campuses have joined communities across the region in support of these displaced refugees as a result of this unimaginable natural disaster that has shattered the lives of thousands of people.

Several initiatives have been established to aid in the relief effort. Dr. Dexter L. Davis, Sr., visiting professor, who is coordinating the effort said, "The entire Widener University community is fully committed to helping the victims of this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the suffering and their families as they look for the strength and courage to endure the weeks and months ahead."

Tuition-free Admission for displaced students
Widener University is offering tuition-free admission to all undergraduate students who are currently enrolled in a college or university that has had to shut down because of Hurricane Katrina. In addition, Widener University School of Law, located on campuses in Wilmington, Del. and Harrisburg, Pa., is offering tuition-free admission to law students who are currently enrolled in either Tulane University or Loyola University and who are now displaced as a result of the disaster. Many faculty and staff members have even offered to house these students at no cost while they attend Widener School of Law.

Campus-wide Fundraising Efforts
Community members on Widener’s main campus in Chester, Pa., are actively fundraising for the relief effort. The Widener University Athletics department is donating all proceeds from fall sports activities, including a number of fundraising raffles, to the American Red Cross and other national disaster agencies. In addition, a number of student organizations and clubs are spearheading campus-wide and community fundraising initiatives.

University grants leave for employees to volunteer in relief efforts
President Harris has strongly encouraged students and faculty to participate in the relief efforts. "It is imperative that we do everything we can to offer assistance to these residents as they cling to hope and rebuild their lives," says Dr. Harris. Faculty and staff interested in volunteering with a national disaster agency may request up to three weeks of leave to do so. Already one staff member has volunteered her services to the relief effort. Many students are considering making similar humanitarian trips during their fall and spring breaks.

President Harris addressed the university, calling for support and stressing the long road ahead for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. "As we all know, the clean up and reconstruction process will be extensive and costly. I am confident that the members of our Widener community will open their hearts and minds to offer assistance for as long as it is needed."

Widener University is a metropolitan university that connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. It comprises eight schools and colleges that offer liberal arts and sciences, professional and pre-professional curricula leading to associate’s, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The university’s campuses in Chester, Exton and Harrisburg, Pa., and Wilmington, Del., serve some 6,700 students. Visit the university’s website, www.widener.edu.

For more information about Widener University relief efforts, please contact Dr. Dexter L. Davis at 610.499.1169 or dldavis@mail.widener.edu.