Statement from Cornell President David J. Skorton regarding today’s earthquake and tsunami in Japan

March 11, 2011

I extend the heartfelt sympathies and condolences of the entire Cornell University community to all those in Japan who have suffered loss from today’s 8.9-magnitude earthquake and the resulting devastating tsunami in the northern region of the country.

As a member of a global university with many personal and professional connections to Japan through our alumni, staff, students and faculty, including my own, I feel deeply the anguish of a country that is faced with a national disaster. Cornell is doing everything it can to determine whether we have students, faculty and staff in the country, and, if so, that they are safe. We will be reporting on our findings as soon as information is received.

I am confident that members of the Cornell community will contribute, wherever appropriate, their expertise and support toward the recovery effort in the weeks and months ahead. I urge Cornellians to contribute to the relief organizations of their choice.

Words are inadequate after such an distressing event. We stand as citizens of the world and offer our hands, our hearts and the goodwill of our institution to contribute to rebuilding in a meaningful way.

David J. Skorton
President