M E M O R A N D U M

							September 20, 2011

To:	Members of the Board of Trustees

From:	Nancy L. Zimpher, Chancellor

Subject: 	Assistance for Students Affected by the 2011 Hurricane Season
	

Action Requested

	The proposed resolution authorizes the Chancellor to create one or more  funds to receive donations to enable State-operated campuses and community colleges to provide assistance to SUNY students affected by significant storm/flooding damage during the 2011 hurricane season. 

Resolution

	I recommend that the Board of Trustees adopt the following resolution:

Whereas this Board wishes to assist students at State-operated campuses and community colleges under the program of the State University who reside in counties within the State most severely impacted by the 2011 hurricane season; and 

Whereas the SUNY campuses are to be commended for efforts to assist impacted students; now, therefore, be it 

Resolved that the Chancellor, or designee, is authorized to create one or more  funds, in an appropriate manner and in one or more appropriate entities, to receive donations from all individuals and entities who or which constitute the SUNY family and others, for the purpose of enabling State-operated campuses and community colleges to provide assistance to such SUNY students.








Background

	Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, as well as other severe weather in 2011, have had a substantial adverse impact on the economic well-being of SUNY students and their families who reside in the hardest hit areas of New York State.  SUNY campuses have in attendance a number of such students.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency  (FEMA) has designated residents of twenty New York State counties as potentially eligible for individual assistance from FEMA.

	The campuses have been responding to the needs of New York students affected by the hurricane and tropical storm.  To assist in meeting this financial burden, the resolution authorizes the Chancellor, or designee, to create one or more  funds, in appropriate manner and in one or more appropriate entities, to receive donations by members of the SUNY family (e.g. foundations, alumni associations, SUNY officers, employees and trustees) and others, the proceeds of which will enable State-operated campuses and community colleges to provide financial assistance (e.g. scholarships for room, board and tuition) to affected students.




















Board Resolution	-2-	September 20, 2011