Dear UF community,

As the magnitude of Hurricane Ian’s devastation becomes even more clear, I want to acknowledge and extend my sympathies to members of our university community who are dealing with its impacts first-hand -- as well as to all Gators who have families, friends and loved ones affected by the storm.

UF’s Gainesville campus was largely unscathed, but several IFAS facilities in Southwest Florida were damaged by flooding and high winds, and there may be as-yet-unreported damage to other facilities in the region. Ian continues to affect parts of northeast Florida this afternoon, but currently we are not aware of any injuries to UF personnel or students caused by the storm.

I want to extend my thanks to everyone who has worked tirelessly to keep the university and our facilities up and running during the storm and in its aftermath. I also thank those who have continued their important work assisting others during this time, from dining and residence hall staff to UF agricultural extension agents to UF Health staff members. You exemplify the best of what it means to be a Gator.

Members of the community who want to help those in need can do so in a variety of ways, including the American Red Cross and the Florida Disaster Fund. People may also donate to Aid-a-Gator, which provides funding to students experiencing unanticipated expenses due to emergency situations. Donations also can be made to Aid-a-Gator for faculty and staff.

Again, I offer my heartful sympathies to all those who are experiencing losses or challenges as a result of Ian. I wish everyone a rapid recovery. We look forward to the Gainesville campus return to normal operations this Saturday.

Warmly,

Kent