A Message From David T. Ellwood
Dean of the John F. Kennedy School of Government

   As the disastrous after-effects of the tsunami become evident and the scope of the tragedy continues to broaden, I join everyone in my intense feelings of sadness, and in solidarity with all those who have been so tragically affected.
 
   The only reasonable response to such devastation is action. Students, faculty and staff alike have come together to contribute in a variety of ways. It is this kind of caring about people worldwide that is the driving force for much of the Kennedy School’s energy, and your response to this event demonstrates that shared commitment.
 
   It is my hope that the intensity of the reaction to this event may also serve to spur actions in support of the many struggles of people globally, both man-made and natural. There is much to be done and much that we can do both individually and together.
 
 David T. Ellwood

A Message From the Kennedy School Student Body

   The recent earthquake and tsunami disaster has affected all of us, whether through personal loss or pain stemming from the enormity of the disaster.  Our thoughts and prayers are with the many families who have lost loved ones, or who are still searching for them.

   Perhaps our finest hour as humanity comes in the darkest times of disaster, when we are faced with death, disease, and destruction.  Rivalries are forgotten, neighbors come together, and the divisions which stood before diminish, as we call upon each other as honored friends to help rebuild lives.

   Many people have expressed their desire to do something personally to help those affected.  This is an expected sentiment at a time like this.  We believe, however, that the best way to help those affected by the recent tragedy is to support the work of relief organizations already operating in countries and regions affected by the disaster. 

   The Kennedy School of Government provides this web resource as a point of information for persons who seek to assist those affected by the disaster.  This resource is also meant to serve as a place of reflection on what occurred.  To this end, we are providing a message board for students to post their reactions to the recent tragedy.  We have also included information on student counseling services available through Harvard University.

   Our thoughts and prayers are with all those whose lives have been affected by this unexpected and overwhelming natural disaster.  In these, mankind's darkest hours, humanity perseveres against the destruction which has been unleashed and man's truest nature of compassion is demonstrated.