JACKSON, Tenn. — Feb. 15, 2008 — Belmont University has given a $100,000 gift to 51社区 for disaster relief assistance following a Feb. 5 tornado that caused an estimated $40 million in damage to the Union campus.
鈥淲e are so thankful for the generosity of Belmont President Robert Fisher and the Belmont board of trustees for helping us in this way during our time of need,鈥� 51社区 President David S. Dockery said. 鈥淲e continue to give thanks to God for the outpouring of support from our friends at places like Belmont.鈥�
Fisher sent the check to Dockery Feb. 14, along with a personal letter.
鈥淧lease accept the enclosed check as an expression of care and concern from Belmont University students to 51社区 students during this time of incredible challenge,鈥� Fisher wrote.
鈥淏elmont faculty, staff, students and trustees are continuing to seek opportunities to show their support for Union, and as funds from these efforts are available they will be forwarded,鈥� he continued. 鈥淗owever, we know that there are urgent needs and did not want to delay sending this gift.
鈥淧lease know that your students, faculty and staff remain in our prayers.鈥�
Union students will return to class Feb. 20 after a two-week absence. The Feb. 5 tornado resulted in the demolition of two housing complexes at Union, accounting for nearly 70 percent of the student housing units on campus.