This message was delivered to Guilford faculty and staff members.
Colleagues,
As we have all learned in the past several days, Hurricane Helene resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life in the Southeast and especially in the mountains of North Carolina. Many of us have family and friends who have been directly impacted by the storm. Our hearts go out to all who are affected.
We have 50 students from counties in the mountains and other areas of our state and more than 100 students from neighboring Southeastern states that were in the path of Helene. It must be difficult to be away from home and loved ones at a time like this. We were in contact Monday with these students to offer help and to encourage them to seek assistance.
Given the circumstances, and in concert with Provost Maria Rosales, I’m asking faculty members and work supervisors to be as flexible as possible given the nature of their courses with students having difficulty participating in class, completing coursework or fulfilling work responsibilities while being concerned about home and family.
Navigating life is challenging without the uncertainties of times like these. I hope you will encourage students to reach out to the Counseling Center or Friends Center if they need to talk to someone on a confidential basis. Direct them to the Quaker Cupboard if food insecurity is an issue for them at this point in time.
Guilford is a caring and supportive community that rises to the occasion, including in times of crisis. A group of Guilfordians from on and off campus met Monday, and will meet again later this week to confirm plans to assist our students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends impacted by Helene. We will update you on these plans.
As you are able and interested, please consider donating to an organization providing relief:
American Red Cross North Carolina - Western North Carolina chapter
United Way North Carolina
N.C. Disaster Relief Fund
World Central Kitchen
A Simple Gesture (food drive)
Humane Society Disaster Relief
If you have questions or suggestions for ways the College can assist in this effort, email president@guilford.edu. Meanwhile, please take care of yourselves and those around you.
Sincerely,
Kyle Farmbry, J.D., Ph.D.
President