August 31, 2005
Dear Students,
As all of you know, Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and Southeast Louisiana. Officials estimate that flooding will impact eighty percent or more of the city. Due to the flooding, it is difficult for officials to know the extent of the damage to the New Orleans area. Disruptions in phone and utility service are widespread and are causing additional problems. The entire New Orleans region is under a mandatory evacuation order.
The State Police have closed all roads into New Orleans and southeast Louisiana. Many of these roads are impassable, flooded or damaged. All of them are dangerous and the State Police and National Guard are turning away anyone attempting to drive into New Orleans. Many of you may have planned to go home for the long Labor Day weekend. You will not be able to get into the city.
Many of you are anxious and concerned about your families, friends and homes. I understand how worried you must be. Uppermost in my mind is your safety and well being. I know you want to be with your families, but I urge you to stay in Monroe and continue your studies at ULM. You will be safe here and your family members know how to contact you. We made arrangements for food service to open Schulze Cafeteria through the weekend and on Monday for your convenience.
I understand that this is a very trying time for you. We have resources available at ULM to help you. If you want to talk to someone, you can call the counseling center at 342-5220. They are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. After 4:30 p.m. and during the weekend, you can reach a counselor by calling the University Police at 342-5350. This service is free to our students. Other helpful information is available on the Counseling Center Web site at www.ulm.edu/counselingcenter/.
ULM is making special financial arrangements for those of you from the affected areas. If you feel that you are or will be having financial problems because of the dislocation of your family, please go to the Controller's Office in the Administration Building for advice.
Help is also available in Monroe for students and their displaced family members. The United Way First Call for Help is a clearing house for numerous social service agencies. They can be reached by dialing 211. Information on other services, including the State Police and FEMA is available by going to www.ulm.edu/katrina/.
We will make it through this devastating tragedy together. There are many people at ULM who are concerned about you. We are here to provide the help and support you need during this trying time.
James E. Cofer, Sr.
ULM President