Published by Communications and Public Affairs (519) 824-4120, Ext. 56982 or 53338
News Release
January 10, 2005
U of G to pay tribute to tsunami victims, events to raise funds, awareness
The University of Guelph will hold a vigil Jan. 17 at 7 p.m. in War Memorial Hall to mourn those who lost their lives as a result of the Dec. 26 tsunami. The evening will include reflections, music and readings. Everyone is welcome to attend.
U of G will also pay tribute to those who died in the tsunami by observing a minute of silence Jan. 12 at noon. The university community is invited to share this observance with members of central administration and student government in Room 103 of the University Centre. Introductory remarks will begin promptly at 11:45 a.m.
“Our community joins with the millions of people around the world mourning the tremendous loss of human life,” said president Alastair Summerlee. “Our thoughts are with the families whose loved ones are still missing, with those who have lost their homes, and with the people bringing aid and support.”
The university is also running a blue ribbon campaign until Jan. 21 on the theme “We Can Make a Difference.” Collection boxes have been placed in a range of locations across campus. Funds will be donated to the Red Cross.
Two members of the School of English and Theatre Studies — Prof. Ajay Heble and PhD candidate Jesse Stewart — are involved in organizing a tsunami relief concert to be held Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at the River Run Centre. Performers will include The Kramdens, Sarah Harmer, The Cryin’ Out Loud Choir and Tannis Slimmon, a staff member in the Department of Plant Agriculture. Tickets are $25 through the River Run box office at 763-3000. All funds collected will be donated to UNICEF, and charitable tax receipts will be issued. Student governments and the International Students Organization are also planning fundraising events.
Plans are also under way to hold a speaker series later in the semester to discuss the far-reaching impact of the tsunami. That topic will be the focus of an international development seminar being organized by Marshall Gallardo Castaneda, a master’s student in rural extension studies. Slated for Jan. 13 at noon in the lobby of the Landscape Architecture Building, the seminar will feature speakers from across campus.
In addition to providing economic support to those affected by the disaster, the University will be working with faculty and other researchers to assess what assistance U of G might provide in the short and long terms in the way of research and development expertise.
For media questions, contact Communications and Public Affairs: Lori Bona Hunt, (519) 824- 4120, Ext. 53338, or Rachelle Cooper, Ext. 56982.
