In the Aftermath of Hurricane Katrina

Excerpted from Statement of Support in the Aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Association of American Colleges and Universities Board of Directors

The impact of Hurricane Katrina on the Gulf Coast region is catastrophic and unprecedented. The region faces years of difficult recovery efforts, the burden of which will be disproportionately borne by the poor and those who now find themselves without homes, jobs, adequate insurance, or any material belongings or resources. On behalf of the entire AAC&U community, we express our profound concern for all those affected and pledge our support for those in need.

This event provides a valuable opportunity for the nation—and its colleges and universities—to reflect on the root issues that make many Americans especially vulnerable in times of catastrophe. As David Brooks wrote in the New York Times on September 1, 2005, “Floods wash away the surface of society….They expose the underlying power structures…and the unacknowledged inequalities.” The academy continues to have a civic obligation not only to provide expertise to prepare for and respond to disasters, but also to help the nation redress the causes of the inequality and disenfranchisement made all too clear in the wake of such a disaster. We must teach students about these issues and inspire them to respond with reasoned inquiry, creative problem solving, compassionate concern, and a strong sense of social and civic responsibility for the long-term health of the democracy in which they live. AAC&U will do all it can to assist colleges and universities across the country as they rise to this civic challenge.

To read the complete statement, please see /www.aacu.org/About/statements/hurricane_katrina.cfm