Southwestern is committed to supporting our students, families, alumni, faculty, staff and friends impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Not only today and next week, but in the weeks, months and even years ahead.

Our SU family has been heartbroken watching the events unfold over the last week. We’ve seen the devastation. We’ve comforted students and friends from the Gulf Coast and Houston area, and cried with them as they waited to hear updates from their families. We’re proud of those who immediately jumped in, risking their lives to save others. You’ve come together to volunteer, donating your time and resources to help those in need. We are so proud of our extended SU community.  

As the waters begin to recede and the painstaking recovery process begins, we want you to know that Southwestern is dedicated to supporting those directly impacted by this massive storm.

We know it will be a rebuilding process, and that recovery doesn’t happen overnight. Families will be rebuilding for a long time. Ripping out carpet and moldy drywall. Sorting through soggy belongings to see what they can salvage. On hold for hours dealing with insurance issues. Living with friends, families or temporary housing until they can move back into their own.

We realize that this is the beginning of an extended and difficult process, and we want to reassure you that we’re in it for the long haul.

Not How College Should Start

We particularly feel for our first-year students from the areas hardest hit. The beginning of college should be a joyous time, filled with excitement and anticipation. A college freshman’s biggest worry should be about finding their classes on the first day, or what extra-curricular activity they should join.

What should they should NOT be worried about?

  • Whether or not their family and friends are even alive.

  • If they’ll have a home to return to at fall break.

  • How they’ll juggle academic work while supporting loved ones back home.

  • If this will affect their family’s finances enough to impact their education.  

We want our students and families to know that your safety and well-being is our top priority, and we are behind you 100%. If Harvey has impacted an SU family, we want to know so we can find ways to help.

Our Southwestern Harvey Recovery Facebook Page is a great way to communicate specific needs. We can help match those impacted with those ready and willing to help. Southwestern and the city of Georgetown is full of huge hearts.

SU students, please know that when you chose Southwestern, you joined a family. We are here for you and ready to help you through this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with those in Houston, Rockport, Port Aransas, Corpus Christi, Beaumont and the countless other areas that are struggling right now. We’re in this together – now, and always.

#SUpportTexas #TexasStrong

Harvey Meeting on Campus Today, Thursday, Aug 31 @4pm

Lynda McCombs Campus Center Ballroom

Details: Student Activities and Community-Engaged Learning invite interested members of the campus community to attend a meeting today at 4pm in the Lynda McCombs Campus Center Ballroom. This meeting will bring together individuals and student organizations to discuss various strategies for assisting communities affected by Hurricane Harvey.