September 1, 2005

To: The La Salle University Community

From: Brother Michael J. McGinniss, President

All of us, I am certain, have been closely following the news of the tragic consequences of Hurricane Katrina. Our hearts and prayers go out to the many victims of this catastrophe in Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi. It is almost impossible to imagine the extent of the human suffering caused by this extraordinary natural disaster.

At La Salle, many students, faculty, and staff quickly gathered to determine what we could do to help those in need. The activity on campus is reminiscent of the days following 9/11. Our Division of Student Affairs is taking a leadership role in this effort.

We are working to identify La Salle community members and their families who may have been specifically affected by the aftermath of the hurricane. Activities designed to raise funds and other resources are being planned by student organizations. On the drawing board are a blood drive and a student service trip. We will soon schedule a prayer vigil. The collections taken at the Sunday liturgies on campus for the next four weeks will go to hurricane relief. Plans to assist Lasallian schools and their students in New Orleans are in the works.

We will keep you informed of the ways that you may participate in La Salle’s relief plans. While these organized efforts move forward, I would ask you individually to pray for all those who so desperately need relief, and I thank you in advance for what I know you will do.