Dear Members of the Salem Family,

In view of the devastation that has occurred as a result of a 7.8-magnitude earthquake and many aftershocks that hit near Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, this weekend, our hearts go out to the more than 7,000 men, women, and children who are reported to be injured and to the families and friends of the 3,900 people who lost their lives.

A number of people from the areas affected by the earthquake are members of the Salem family, including a first-year student at the College and more than 80 College alumnae. Many of our Nepalese alumnae continued their education in American graduate schools and remained in the US. We feel a special connection to this country and its people, and we stand by them in their time of distress.

Currently, we are using information from social media and email, and we are working with our faculty, our staff, and our alumnae network to confirm the safety of our Nepalese alumnae. If you have heard from one of these Salem sisters and you are able to share information, please use our online response form to send your news.

We will hold an interfaith prayer vigil for the victims and their families today at 4:30 pm in the Pauly Plaza, located behind the Salem College student center, where we will gather by the Peace Pole.

Significant support for the most basic needs of shelter, water, and medical supplies will be needed. I encourage members of the Salem family to make donations through one of the well-known disaster relief organizations that have been recommended.

In the days and months ahead, let us continue to remember in our thoughts and prayers all those who have been touched by this tragedy of such extraordinary proportions.

Yours,

D. E. Lorraine Sterritt, PhD
President