This page is no longer being updated and remains online for informational and historical purposes only. The information is accurate as of the last page update.
For questions about page contents, contact the Communications Division.
Alex Hendrickson, College chaplain and director of religious & spiritual life, emailed the following message to the campus community today:
Dear Lafayette Community,
The destruction caused by Typhoon Haiyan has saddened us greatly. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people affected in the Philippines and the surrounding region and with those who have lost family members in this unprecedented tragedy. Scenes of such suffering remind us of our own humanity and of our natural reflex to reach out to help. Members of the Lafayette community may contribute directly to the American Red Cross, which is working directly with the Philippines Red Cross to deliver aid.
Natural disasters are a part of our world today, but as global citizens, we can band together to help ease the suffering. Lafayette has always been characterized by a spirit of community involvement, whether that community is our city, our nation or the world. I am confident that our response to this tragedy will be no different.
A group of Lafayette students has already indicated their desire to help in the relief effort. I would like to particularly note the concern from the International Students Association; during the ISA board meeting tomorrow, a discussion and brainstorming session will be held to determine what particular activities may be held to raise funds to support typhoon relief work. If other students are interested in joining with the ISA at tomorrow’s meeting, they should contact me directly. Otherwise, know that ways to participate in awareness and fund-raising efforts will be publicized in the coming weeks.
This past weekend has been a particularly difficult one, for a number of reasons. Please know that the Office of Religious & Spiritual Life, the Counseling Center, and many other avenues of support are available to those in our community who need someone to talk with. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Sincerely,
Rev. Alex Hendrickson
hendrica@lafayette.edu