The tragic earthquake that devastated much of Haiti has also struck a chord among concerned students at UT.

There are many students on campus reaching deep into their sparse bank accounts to help support Haiti. On the other hand, there are many students who sympathize with the people of Haiti, but still do not understand the severity of the destruction that has happened so far away.

When asked how this tragedy has affected UT students, freshman Kaylyn Jordan said, "I think that most people are really saddened by what has happened in Haiti, but it is hard to get a real sense of how devastated their country is right now because they are so far away."

Sophomore Katie Short tries to wrap her mind around the despair in Haiti. "The first time I saw the pictures and video from Haiti on the news, I was immediately reminded of the devastation of Hurricane Katrina," Short said. "I was moved by the sadness and destruction there, and I wanted to help. I would love to go help rebuild from this tragedy like I did with Hurricane Katrina in lower Mississippi."

I was moved by the sadness and destruction there, and I wanted to help.
Katie Short, sophomore at UT

Though not many students can say they have any special connection to this Caribbean Island, there seems to be enough sympathy on campus to prompt multiple fundraising events for the Haitian people.  

On campus, students can find boxes in the residence halls to contribute used clothing items, and jars at their hall's front desk labeled: "Loose change for a change in Haiti."

On Jan. 20 the Red Cross hosted a club fundraiser in the University Center, and on the following Friday the Delta Sigma Theta sorority held a fundraiser at Pedestrian Walkway for students and faculty. Though both fundraisers were considered to be a success, there are still many opportunities out there for students to contribute. 

On Feb. 27 there is a fashion show and dress sale that will be staffed by UT students, and multiple church and religious groups surrounding campus are sending missionaries to Haiti for various relief efforts.