Ithaca College

With the end of winter break and the start of the spring semester, I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the ongoing crisis in Haiti in the wake of the earthquake. As part of a global community of mutual care and commitment, I know that many members of the Ithaca College community have contributed and will contribute to relief efforts. 

Just as they did in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and the Asian tsunami, individuals and organizations on campus will in the days ahead take an active interest in creating and supporting local opportunities for Haiti relief.  Some people have asked where they can donate with certainty they are reaching organizations that will be effective on the ground in Haiti.  The website of InterAction—a coalition of international nongovernmental organizations focused on the world’s poor and most vulnerable people—has links to its member organizations through which donations can be made.  Please visit http://www.interaction.org/crisis-list/earthquake-haiti to learn more. 

It is altogether appropriate that we come together this week for a series of events to celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr..  The theme for our celebration—“Where Do You Stand?”—was taken from Dr. King’s sermon “On Being a Good Neighbor.”  King’s thoughts on the importance of making a commitment were never more relevant than they are today, as we take a stand on behalf of our Haitian neighbors in need. On behalf of our students, faculty, and staff I also want to extend our deepest sympathies to the people of Haiti and to all who have been affected by the earthquake and its aftermath.