Support the Surfside Community

Professor Fang Shu

We've all heard about the tragic Surfside condominium collapse on June 24th. Our hearts were broken by this tragedy. First, I wish to extend my condolences to the families of the dead and missing. In addition, I'd like to express my gratitude to all those who have helped the community, particularly first responders. 

 

First responders have been working tirelessly to search for and rescue survivors. 

While there are many people expressing concerns and criticism about the efficiency and speed of first responders on the internet, I would like to thank all of them for everything they do. It isn't easy, you know. Having to deal with that is incredibly overwhelming.

 

Locals are showing their support for first responders. For example, more than 500 thank-you letters and notes of encouragement, handwritten by kids, were handed over to the first responders on site. Mental health professionals called in to help first responders. There are also mental health dogs on-site to assist first responders in coping with extreme emotional stress.

(Photos courtesy of Lauren Book)

There is also involvement from the FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. Chef instructors John Noble Masi, Rossy Ambe Cohen, and some of my colleagues (Ivonne Amor, Olivia Catasús, Brian Connors, Nathan Dodge...) immediately organized a group of student volunteers to make and deliver hot food trays to our first responders. That’s the Panther Way. I am so proud of all of them!

"Look what we are cooking up at @fiuhospitality! Earlier this week we prepared breakfast for over 200 Surfside volunteers and first responders. I could not be happier or more proud of the great student and colleague volunteers that supported our efforts. Huge thanks to all! Our menu was vegetable strata, patatas bravas, and fresh fruit!"

 

- Professor John Noble Masi

(All FIU photos courtesy of the FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management)

Everybody can help out by using their own resources, as I teach in the philanthropy class. Kids craft thank-you letters and encouragement cards. Mental health professionals provide therapy and psychological assessments. Hospitality students and professors provide meals. What can you do? Money can be donated if you have it (see available donations). Please consider volunteering if you have the time. You can also post this week's letter on your social media platforms if you are unable to do both. Your social network can also help by letting your connections know what they can do. Thank you very much!

 

Best regards

Fang

I got a message from some of you saying that I didn't show you how to cut a hole in a piece of paper large enough to walk through. Not a problem! For instructions, click the button below. 

 

 
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FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management

 

Orlando Hospitality Alumni Reception

 

Sunday, September 19, 2021

6:00 - 8:00 pm

 

Margaritaville Resort Orlando 

 

 
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Show your Honors College pride and help us reach our 18% alumni participation goal! $1 can make a difference to our students. Use the link below or text "AlumniHonors20" to "71777" to make your donation.

 

 
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If you are new here, please feel free to read my previous letters on my personal website. You may like reading them. Thanks so much for your support!

 

 
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