Provost Riordan updates WWU community after Japan earthquake, tsunami
Western Washington University provost Catherine Riordan updated the WWU community via e-mail Friday on a number of issues related to Friday's 8.9-magnitude earthquake and tsunami. In her message, Riordan stated that 10 of the 11 WWU students currently studying in Japan have been accounted for, and the 65 Japanese students studying at WWU have been contacted by staff to provide support as they continue to seek information on loved ones in Japan.
The full text of Riordan's message:
To members of the campus community,
Last night, an 8.9 magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of Japan followed by tsunamis resulting in extensive flooding, major infrastructure damage, and the evacuation of many people in the areas most affected. This was Japan's largest quake in more than 100 years.
Naturally, when events like this happen people want assurances that those they care about are safe, and they want to know how they can help. We have had many inquiries this morning from the Western and Bellingham communities expressing concern for our students and offering assistance, a continued testament to the caring nature of this community.
Given the extent of the damage, communication is a challenge and information has been coming in slowly. At this time, we know that of the 11 Western students currently studying abroad, 10 have been accounted for; efforts are under way to reach the last student, who is at an exchange university in an area not directly impacted by these events. Additionally, we have 65 Japanese international students enrolled here in degree programs, the Intensive English Program, or the Asia University America Program. All of these students have been contacted by program staff to provide support as they continue to get information about family members and friends in Japan. If you have concerns about friends or family from the U.S. who are living or traveling in Japan, it is recommended that you contact the U.S. Department of State's Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747 or 202-647-5225.
In addition, worldwide relief efforts are already under way and donations will be critical as the people of Japan rebuild their lives and their communities. In general, disaster relief organizations are advising against sending care packages, food or clothing to the area at this time. Financial donations go much further in recovery planning. The American Red Cross is accepting donations on their website (http://www.redcross.org/), or you can text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 from your phone. Additional donation options include Global Giving (http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/japan-earthquake-tsunami-relief/) or Network for Good (http://www1.networkforgood.org/).
Your support and concern, as well as any assistance you can offer to the relief efforts, is appreciated.
Catherine Riordan
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Western Washington University