TULANE TALK

February 14, 2003

Good Morning:

With the arrival of Valentine’s Day I wanted to remind you of some of the many ways members of the Tulane University community are putting their hearts into action.

On Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tulane faculty, students, staff and alumni will gather at Charles J. Colton Junior High to begin the preparatory work for a Tulane-led “paint rally” that will take place at the school on March 22 from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is one of the numerous efforts Tulane volunteers make throughout the year to improve our schools. To join this endeavor visit http://www.som.tulane.edu/paintrally/

Students involved in the Service Learning Program at Tulane also continue to make tremendous contributions to the community. This year more than 850 Service Learning students have volunteered in local schools, health agencies and community organizations throughout New Orleans. One of the community partners of the Office of Service Learning, the Urban Conservancy, is also working with Tulane students and faculty to help New Orleans achieve economic development while maintaining its historic character.

In addition to these projects, Tulane biomedical engineering students in Professor David Rice’s design class continue to work with physically challenged residents to develop special chairs, lifts, feeders and even customized toys that bring greater independence and joy to the lives of many.

And finally, almost every day I get word of another Tulane alumnus who is being deployed for military service to the Middle East or other parts of the world. While there will always be debate regarding various aspects of our military policy, I don’t think anyone questions the dedication and bravery of these young men and women.

These are just a few instances in which members of the Tulane family touch the lives and hearts of others in such meaningful ways.

Have a special Valentine’s Day and a great weekend,