To the George Washington Community:
I write to thank you for all the ways in which you have responded to the disaster in Haiti. Time and again, when our community sees a need, we heed the call. We know from the response of those who have been affected – alumni as well as current students and employees – that your efforts have been felt.
In particular, I wish to recognize the GW medical personnel who are engaged on the ground in rescue and recovery. And we are all indebted to the Caribbean Students Association (CSA), whose members have been personally affected by this tragedy and yet who have stepped forward to lead with clarity and courage. Those of us who gathered Tuesday evening on the University Yard were deeply moved by the vigil CSA hosted and the stories its members shared.
The University has been working with CSA and a coalition of student organizations on a number of initiatives. One result is that, starting this Friday, George Washington students, faculty, and staff will have an opportunity to make donations via their GWorld cards. Those wishing to participate in other ways can find updated information on the GW homepage at www.gwu.edu.
Meanwhile, I have remained in touch with our distinguished alumna Haitian First Lady Elisabeth Delatour Préval regarding the urgent needs of her fellow citizens and ways in which we can help. I have asked Dr. John Williams, provost and vice president for health affairs, to lead a senior Haiti Response Group to coordinate our efforts.
Throughout this process, our thoughts and prayers remain with the people of Haiti and all who have been affected by this terrible event.
Sincerely,
Steven Knapp
President, The George Washington University