UPEI Opens Its Doors to Students Displaced by Hurricane
The University of Prince Edward Island is rolling out the welcome mat for students who have been displaced by the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. "At this time of need we all have to help out in whatever ways we can," says UPEI President Wade MacLauchlan. "These students have had their lives disrupted enough in the past week; we want to ensure that they don't lose their academic year too."
UPEI has made available an unlimited number of openings in its undergraduate and graduate programs for students who may wish to transfer. And while international student fees will still apply, the University is providing the Katrina-displaced students with access to a special bursary which can offset the cost of tuition. Students would also be eligible to apply for any of UPEI's existing scholarships and bursaries.
In order to accommodate students from the storm area, UPEI is holding open its late registration option to ensure that they are able to get into the classes they need. The University is also opening up its residences to students and families who have been displaced by the storm.
"We can re-configure our residence halls to accommodate additional students, and we also have access to several of townhouses at Brown's Court which would be suitable for families," says Director of Residence Services, Marc Braithwaite.
"We would be very pleased to have students from the New Orleans area join us here at UPEI," President MacLauchlan says. "It would be an excellent opportunity for us to show our legendary Island hospitality and to welcome students who would make a valuable contribution to the intellectual and cultural life of our campus."
President MacLauchlan added that UPEI would be pleased to consider partnering with interested community organizations who wish to assist hurricane-affected students to attend UPEI.
The students, faculty and staff at AVC have established a Hurricane Katrina Relief donations table in the lobby of AVC. To aid the humanitarian effort, donations are being accepted on behalf of the Red Cross. The School of Veterinary Medicine at Louisiana State University (LSU) has asked AVC to assist it in its efforts to provide relief and care to the many animals that are ill, injured or stranded. AVC Dean Dr. Tim Ogilvie has responded positively and AVC is accepting financial donations that will be sent to LSU. "Assisting with this worthy and pressing cause is well within the mandate for outreach in the interest of animal welfare that is the mission of the Sir James Dunn Animal Welfare Centre," said Dr. Ogilvie.
Anyone can make a donation to either or both relief efforts by visiting AVC or by calling UPEI Advancement Services at (902) 566-0615 (Visa or Mastercard accepted.) UPEI will issue tax deductible receipts for all donations over $10 to support the animal relief effort. Humanitarian contributions will be payable to and processed by the Red Cross.
Anyone interested in more information on UPEI's efforts to assist students from the New Orleans area, or any organization interested in working in cooperation with UPEI, should contact the university communications office at 566-0760.
