Friday, May 27, 2011

Speck to MSSU faculty, staff: Remember our colleagues in our thoughts and prayers

Missouri Southern State University President Dr. Bruce Speck issued the following message to faculty and staff today:

As we conclude our first very eventful week on the summer schedule and head into a four-day break from work at MSSU, I want everyone to know how much I appreciate the tremendous efforts each of you has made to support those who are in such need during this crisis. I have heard nothing but praise and admiration from community leaders, those who have benefitted from our partnership with the Red Cross, various community members, and our colleagues and friends throughout the United States for the way MSSU has handled our engagement with the community.


I take all the kudos as further evidence that the members of the Missouri Southern community are deeply caring of and highly committed to the welfare of our four-state area. I am extremely proud of all of you and humbled to have the opportunity to work with you day-by-day, but especially during this crisis. You have demonstrated a level of service that will stand as a benchmark for those who want an example of tireless service to others.

Clearly, members of our own Missouri Southern community are hurting because they have been directly touched by personal loss, so the respite from their duties at MSSU that begins tomorrow will allow them the opportunity to focus on pressing needs. But the road to recovery will be long and I encourage all of us to remember our dear colleagues in our thoughts and prayers as we seek to comfort them and provide tangible help as best we can.

To the extent possible, I urge you to take the next four days as a time of rest so that you can experience healing for body and soul. You have dedicated yourself so much to the welfare of others that it is now time to take time for yourselves.

Again, my pride and admiration for your efforts is only surpassed by my assurance that we will all continue to serve our community so that the rebuilding process will be a monument to those who have suffered so much.

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