Students, Faculty, Staff, and Public Invited to "Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines: Environmental and Disaster Management Lessons" Teach-In to be Held Tuesday November, 19
UMass Dartmouth Chancellor Divina Grossman, born and raised in the Philippines, has invited the university community and general public to come together for the "Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines: Environmental and Disaster Management Lessons" teach-in, Tuesday, November 19, at 12pm in UMass Dartmouth's Main Auditorium. The goal of the teach-in is to learn and understand the history and geography of the Philippines and the susceptibility of the islands to typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural disasters.
"The recovery process will be long and arduous for those rendered homeless, hungry, and hopeless by this typhoon," said Chancellor Grossman. "It is important that in times following natural catastrophes we not only offer our support in the immediate, but also educate on the ongoing challenges the families of the Philippines face now and in the future."
The death toll has climbed to 2,500 and is expected to increase; about 41 provinces are affected and 600,000 people are displaced with their homes destroyed. The teach-in on November 19 will feature speakers on the Philippine geography and history, the Typhoon Haiyan surge, the logistics of disaster relief, the public health challenges during and following a disaster, and the impacts of climate change and rising sea levels.
Chancellor Grossman has encouraged UMass Dartmouth faculty, students, and staff to channel support through the Red Cross, Catholic Relief Services and other established relief agencies. Additionally, some Filipino staff and students at UMass Dartmouth have initiated a collection drive for clothes and toiletries.
UMass Dartmouth's Main Auditorium is located within the university's MacLean Campus Center (285 Old Westport Road, North Dartmouth, MA 02747). Parking is available for the teach-in in lots 6 & 7.