Update on Houston

August 31, 2017

Dear University Community,

My heart continues to ache over the loss of life and property being experienced by those in Houston and its surrounding areas. As I watch the reports and see the images of so many people displaced by this devastating storm, I am at a loss for words to ease your pain. Yet, even in the midst of this tragedy, I have been awestruck by the many stories of overwhelming kindness of neighbors helping neighbors, and I can feel the strength and resilience of Houstonians all the way to Denton. These stories truly exemplify #HoustonStrong.

I continue to meet daily with our Emergency Management and leadership teams regarding the Houston campus, the start of our fall semester, and the well-being of our students, faculty, and staff. As of this evening, we remain optimistic about opening the building and holding the first day of classes on Tuesday, September 5. However, as we continue to receive updates, we must consider not only the weather, but road conditions, transportation infrastructure, and the facility itself. We also need to take into account the greater needs of our students, faculty and staff. Therefore, I ask that you please look for an update on this by 8 p.m., Sunday, September 3.

In the interim, I know you have many questions. Our team has put together a resource page for our students, faculty, and staff that addresses such issues as late registration, withdrawal, faculty support, payroll, and assistance program funds. We also have put together a Houston Human Resources Information page to address possible HR and benefits questions you may have. On these pages, you will find the contact information for those who can respond to any individual concerns you may have at this time. Please reach out to these contacts, and they will work to respond to you as quickly as possible.

Because we are one family united under the Texas Woman’s spirit, please know that the Denton and Dallas campuses are rallying to lend support to those of you affected by Hurricane Harvey, both financially and physically. Donations for emergency student and employee funds are coming in, and many of your colleagues have found ways to volunteer their personal time at the Dallas shelter. The ties that bind our Texas Woman’s family are strong and cannot be broken by city limits.

Please know that you, your family, and your friends are at the forefront of my mind, as we do what we can to support your safety and well-being. We have remarkable students, faculty, and staff at TWU Houston, and we will get through this together.

Sincerely,

Carine M. Feyten, Ph.D.