Memorandums

October storm recovery October 17, 2006

Dear Colleagues:

I want to take a moment to extend my gratitude to the countless members of the extended UB family who made the conditions of the past few days a bit easier to bear. Having just returned to campus from China – where news of the storm was on international television – I was struck not only by the extent of the physical damage and discomfort on campus and in our surrounding neighborhoods, but also by the sense of community that has pervaded the cleanup and recovery effort. I am still concerned for the many members of our university family who continue to face challenges at home, and I know that many of you – students, faculty, and staff – have helped others in need, more than we will ever know.

UB will continue to do what it can to help the area get back on its feet, and already has begun to reach out to the region’s local governments and area school districts to asses their needs and identify ways the university may assist.

As campus re-opens today, it is obvious that storm damage and power outages still impact significant areas in the region. Re-opening will present some challenges, and faculty, students and staff should exercise caution and patience in traveling to and from the campuses. Tens of thousands are yet without power, some area traffic control lights remain out, and debris may still be in roadways and walkways. I encourage you to use public transportation because it helps with the clean-up efforts underway throughout Western New York. Moreover, we are making every effort to re-schedule events that were postponed due to the storm in a timely manner.

Again, you have my thanks for your patience and good cheer during these past five days. This collective effort should make us proud to be members of both the UB and Western New York community.

Sincerely, signature
John B. Simpson
President