Task force, students organize relief efforts

The CC community has answered the call to action to assist the victims of Hurricane Katrina, and many groups involving faculty, staff and students have formed to aid relief efforts, remember those who were lost and help students from New Orleans colleges.

Families of several members of the CC community with ties to Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama were displaced by the storm. But all appear to be safe.

President Norman Fainstein has established a task force to plan the College’s responses. The group is developing programs that will involve a combination of academics and hands-on volunteering. Initiatives under discussion include a visit to New Orleans by students during spring break as part of CC’s Travel Research and Immersion Program (TRIP) and a college-wide “community day” focusing on the Gulf Coast.

“We are also discussing ways to allow employees to take time off to provide help in the region,” Fainstein said. “The College will be working closely with the American Red Cross and United Way on these and other activities.”

The Student Government Association is exploring options for a collective, ongoing response. Other students have formed a relief organization, and many group and individual efforts are taking shape around campus.

“There may be more opportunities to support student initiatives throughout the year,” said Scott McEver, director of student activities. Those interested in assisting can contact the Office of Student Activities for more information.

Collections of non-perishable food, toiletries and other necessities for distribution to the storm’s victims have been organized by the Office of Volunteers for Community Service. OVCS also is accepting monetary donations on behalf of the American Red Cross and the Connecticut Food Bank.

This month the College welcomed four displaced students from Tulane University and one student from Loyola University-New Orleans to study on the New London campus for the semester.

The volume of inquiries for admission from displaced students, which peaked around 30 calls, has dwindled, according to Martha Merrill ’84, dean of admission and financial aid. Now that classes are underway the College has decided not to enroll any more students, she said.

A panel of faculty, staff and students held an on-campus forum in response to the natural disaster. The group is also organizing a similar discussion to take place on Saturday, Oct. 1 during Fall Weekend. The event will offer alumni and parents an opportunity to join in the conversation.