Eduardo J. Padrón
President
Office of the President
300 N.E. Second Avenue
Miami, Florida 33132-2297
305-237-3316
epadron@mdc.edu
Message From the President
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Reflections on Recent Natural Disasters
The month of August has produced its share of natural catastrophes, from the devastating earthquake on Peru's central coast and the Zana wildfire in California's Los Padres National Forest to Hurricane Dean's touchdown in the Caribbean and Mexico, and even the remnants of Tropical Storm Erin, flooding several parts of Texas, Oklahoma and the Midwest.
Many people have been affected by these unfortunate events and I encourage you to keep those victims and their families in your thoughts. Should you wish to offer your financial support, the Red Cross is accepting donations for its National and International Relief Funds.
Closer to home, the 15th anniversary of the worst storm in Florida's history is soon approaching. The destruction caused by Hurricane Andrew on August 24, 1992, reminds us of the importance of exercising vigilance during hurricane season.
Please ensure that you are fully prepared for any windstorms by reviewing your personal emergency plans and gathering supplies, if you haven't already done so. Remember that emergency information related to the College will be communicated via the following primary vehicles:
- MDC Hotline: 305-237-7500. Provides general information and updates.
- MDC Employee Hotline: 305-237-7505. Provides more detailed information about College and campus conditions and plans, with specific instructions for essential personnel who need to respond to campus needs.
- MDC Homepage: http://www.mdc.edu. Provides general information and updates.
- Local media: Postings regarding College closing and reopening information and other important news will be communicated to the major media.
In the event that the College does close during hurricane season, please call the MDC Employee Hotline at least once daily to receive instructions and the latest information regarding the status of classes and operations.
Thank you and be safe.
Eduardo