Message to the Community from President Andreadis - September 22, 2022

Earlier this week, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other islands in the Caribbean were devastated by Hurricane Fiona.

I know that many of you have loved ones impacted by the storm. In times like these, our strength lies in our ability and willingness to take care of each other. Please know that UCB staff are available to support impacted members of our community in any way we can.

Please contact Rosana Perella, Director of Student Support Services, at Rosana.perella@urbancollege.edu (617-449-7380) with questions or to request assistance.

As of today, more than a half million people in Puerto Rico remain without water and 70% of the island is without electricity. In the Dominican Republic, close to a million people are without water and entire towns are completely isolated due to extraordinary rainfall. Work crews are facing severe flooding, impassable roads, downed trees, deteriorating equipment, and downed power lines.

The images of destruction and suffering coming out of Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other islands in the Caribbean are overwhelming. These communities face a daunting future and many still had not fully recovered from 2017’s Hurricane Maria. At the same time, I am inspired by the acts of kindness and community solidarity that are being reported – strangers with trucks carting away tree limbs and other debris, young people discarding ruined household items and furniture for elders, and whole neighborhoods working together to remove the mud that covers so many homes. In the coming weeks, we will be discussing ways that UCB can be a part of the recovery efforts and we invite your ideas.

Finally, to the people of Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and all who have been affected by this week’s storm, you are foremost in our thoughts.

Warmly,

Clea