For Immediate Release

Media Contact:
Fran Gately
Director of Communication
617-333-2970

Curry College is a caring and active community.  Like so many of our colleagues in higher education, we are reaching out to be of assistance in light of the disruption, pain and suffering resulting from Hurricane Katrina.  I want to alert the community to our efforts, as well as to thank so many who have been engaged in those efforts.

Our initial response has been to be of assistance where possible to students whose educational pursuits have been disrupted.  Curry has made known through the appropriate higher education agencies that we have limited residential and course availability that we are making available to those touched by Katrina.  We have offered to provide accelerated admission, transfer and financial aid decisions to any student who desires to apply to continue their studies at Curry.  Jane Fidler, our Dean of Admission, is coordinating those efforts.  We are listed on appropriate websites in both general areas and specific areas such as nursing.  I wish to extend my gratitude to all members of the community who have brought forward suggestions.

The Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) – the association of all private colleges in Massachusetts – is coordinating efforts among Higher Education Institutions on a statewide basis.  I currently serve as the Board Chair of AICUM, and am working closely with Rich Doherty, the President of AICUM, to coordinate these efforts.

Efforts and activities to collect financial and other support for the benefit of those suffering from Katrina will be coordinated on campus by our students through the Student Government Association (SGA).  In an effort to aid the victims of Hurricane Katrina, the SGA will be coordinating a relief fund and clothing drive. In conjunction with the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army, the SGA will be soliciting monetary donations as well as clothing to be delivered to those in need.  All students, faculty and staff are encouraged - and members of the greater Milton community are welcome - to participate. On Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday (September 8, 9, 10, and 12) from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., donations will be taken at the Drapkin Student Center.  In addition, donations can also be dropped off at the Office of Student Activities at 65 Atherton Street on the Milton campus during business hours (8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.).

A member of our Public Safety Department has been activated via the National Guard and deployed to the Gulf Coast area.  A faculty member with specific credentials and organizational membership has been trained by the Red Cross and is also prepared to mobilize.  The College is supporting these employees in their efforts.

Curry College – through its faculty, staff, students and alumni – is an important and contributing member of society.  This is once again being demonstrated through our response to the national disaster that is Hurricane Katrina, and I again wish to thank all of our community members for their support as we assist and help others.

Kenneth K. Quigley, Jr.
President, Curry College