Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

As we continue to see the devastating results of the fires that burn in Southern California, our hearts go out to all the families displaced by this horror. Over 500,000 people have had to leave their homes in San Diego County; it is difficult to imagine the fear and loss that these people are going through.

Here at La Sierra University, our hearts are filled with sympathy, even as we seek to find an appropriate response to show our concern. I have spoken to Riverside Mayor Ron Loveridge this morning, assuring him of our interest in our community's welfare, and our willingness to be of any assistance that might be needed. I also spoke with Pastor Sandy Roberts, Vice President of Southeastern California Conference. Pastor Roberts informs me that a number of their pastors, as well as church families, have been displaced by the fires in San Diego. Ms. Chris Bartholomew, La Sierra's Director of Risk Management, will be meeting with their executive team this afternoon as they work with leaders from the Adventist Development and Relief Agency to coordinate our church's efforts. Ms. Bartholomew is also working with the city as they plan to welcome large groups of evacuees; we have offered campus facilities and resources as needed.

Several of our campus organizations are beginning to work with Councilman Steve Adams on a food and clothing drive. You will hear more about this opportunity from Spiritual Life; if you are interested in participating, please call ext. 2090/option 7.

If you are aware of someone who needs special assistance at this time, please contact Student Life at ext. 2100. If you have any special class needs, I encourage you to speak with your professors. Also, if you suffer from any kind of respiratory problems, our Health Services have free allergy masks for you to pick up. Finally, if you would like to talk with someone about any anxiety you may be experiencing due to these events, please do not hesitate to speak with one of our counselors in our Counseling Center, ext. 2011.

I invite you as you go through your day, to take time to pause, pray, and remember those who at this time are being affected by this tragedy. We know that some of our students and staff have been impacted by these fires, and they, too, need our support. It is our sincere prayer that God's loving embrace will be felt by our families, friends, and community neighbors, and that His strength, coupled with our care, will help to carry them through these difficult times.

Randal Wisbey
President