STU’s Efforts to Help Haiti, a Message from the President

Dear Members of the St. Thomas University Community:

We are all shocked and saddened by the latest devastating event in Haiti. Our thoughts and prayers go out to our brothers and sisters there, as well as to the Haitians in the Diaspora here in the United States and especially on the St. Thomas University campus. In addition, our university’s long-standing connection to many projects in Haiti are also on our minds. We are trying to find information at the moment as to the condition of these various projects, particularly Haiti-tec and the University of Notre Dame in Port au-Prince.

At 12:15pm today, we celebrated Mass for the victims of the earthquake in the Chapel of Saint Anthony. We are also planning other events both to help and demonstrate our solidarity with the Haitian community. Dr Joan DiGregorio, Associate Director for Health and Wellness, will be coordinating counseling sessions for members of our community to assist those who wish to express their thoughts and feelings about this tragedy which affects many families connected to St. Thomas University.

We will organize a collection during the next week through the Office of Campus Ministry. The proceeds will be distributed equally to Catholic Relief Services, for immediate relief and for long-term recovery, to Fonkoze USA, the micro-credit bank in Haiti which supports local residents throughout Haiti, many of whom will need funds to restart their businesses. The Kreyol Nation, our Haitian student organization will also sponsor relief events. I draw your attention and ask your support for the Haitian Women Artisan Exhibit tomorrow, January 14th at 6:00pm at Archbishop Curly Notre Dame Art Gallery in Miami.

All Americans seeking information on US family members in Haiti are encouraged to contact the US Department of State at 1-888-407-4747.

Please keep the people of Haiti in your prayers.

Sincerely,

Msgr. Casale