In the News ... "Howard College and Midland College 'adopt' two Houston-area community colleges for Hurricane Harvey relief "

• HC and MC students and employees lead efforts to provide needed items for Alvin Community College and College of the Mainland

From Rebecca Bell, Dean of Community Relations & Special Events
• Midland College

MIDLAND, TEXAS - n the aftermath of this month’s hurricanes, West Texans are expressing their blessings for abundant sunshine and dry climate. Students and employees at Howard College (HC) and Midland College (MC) have received reports from Gulf Coast community colleges of the devastation encountered from Hurricane Harvey, not only to personal property and belongings, but also to technology and other educational material at these colleges.

Student organizations at both colleges are leading efforts to “adopt” two of the worst-hit community colleges in the Houston area—Alvin Community College located in Alvin, TX and College of the Mainland located in Texas City, TX. Fundraisers are being organized to help replace students’ damaged laptops and library material at both institutions. In addition, HC and MC students and employees are working with officials at Alvin College and College of the Mainland to provide basic household supplies and food for students whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged by Hurricane Harvey.

“We hope we can make a difference for our sister colleges on the coast who are struggling to recover,” said HC President Dr. Cheryl T. Sparks. “Although this event is tragic for so many involved, it also gives us an opportunity to show support and kindness to others, and we are proud to be a part of that effort.”

“I am so proud that our students in West Texas have ‘stepped up to the plate’ and are willing to assist their peers in a time of need,” added MC President Dr. Steve Thomas.

For more information about efforts to assist Gulf Coast community colleges contact Cindy Smith, director of Information and Marketing, Howard College, (432) 264-5034, csmith@howardcollege.edu, or Rebecca Bell, dean of Community Relations, Midland College, (432) 853-7099, rbell@midland.edu.