University community members safe after tsunami hit Asia, work with organizations to bring relief

The University community is deeply saddened by the aftermath of the tsunami that hit Asia Dec. 26, 2004.

As the Chronicle went to press Tuesday, Jan. 4, the University had not learned of any deaths or injuries to any members of the University community who may have been in the region.

A Divinity School/South Asian Languages & Civilizations Ph.D. student, Kristin Bloomer is in Chennai, India, doing research in the region directly affected by the tsunami along the southeastern coast of Tamil Nadu.

Bloomer reported that she is well and will continue her research in the communities. She also is helping with the current relief efforts.

Jonathan Ripley, a recent A.M. graduate in South Asian Languages & Civilizations, who also is living in the Chennai area, is working for an AIDS education program that has now devoted itself to tsunami relief.

Several student organizations are currently planning to support the relief efforts. For more information on those efforts, contact the University Community Service Center at (773) 753-GIVE after Monday, Jan. 10.