A Message from the President Regarding the Flooding Risk

Dear students, faculty, staff, and clinicians,

To those in SLU community who are dealing with the floodwaters, we are here for you. As the next deluge of rain began today, it brings with it the possibility of exacerbating the damage that has already occurred in our region.

Coinciding with the flood damage is heightened danger as water levels continue to rise and transportation becomes even more precarious. Missouri Governor Eric Greitens has issued a state of emergency. More than 270 highways and roads are closed or will be closed today. News outlets are reporting that many area residents may soon be unable to get in or out of St. Louis city by car due to the flooding or in anticipation of imminent flooding. The floodwaters have overtaken many homes, and thousands of homes are in danger of being damaged.

If you need to sandbag, move items at your home, or anticipate that road closures will create the potential for you to be stranded, please consult with your supervisor and take the necessary steps to mitigate that risk to you. I ask that supervisors on our North, South (academic and clinical), and Law campuses support, work alongside, and communicate with those directly dealing with this natural disaster and to be considerate of their needs. Please be especially mindful of childcare issues due to school closings.

Individuals who are unable to attend work or work from home for reasons related to flooding would not be expected to use paid vacation time to cover their absences. Clarification on the reporting of time away from work resulting from this natural disaster will be provided on the Human Resources website in the days to come.

Students, if you commute to campus and have already encountered dangerous flooding or anticipate that you will, please work with the Dean of Students Office and your faculty. Also, know that our Campus Ministers and counselors are always available.

Our SLUCare offices will remain open to serve our patients, particularly in this time of need. Please look for a follow up message from SLUCare COO Kathy Merlo. I encourage our SLUCare supervisors to communicate this message with their teams and to work with our committed clinicians and staff to ensure the needs of our patients and employees are met.

Please know the University will do its best to assist those in need and that safety is our number one priority. Follow emergency advisories, and never attempt to cross flooded roads by vehicle or by foot.

General information can be found on the Google Public Alert System. Airbnb is also offering free accommodations to those affected by the floods. We will keep a close eye on this situation as it develops over the next several days and provide updates as needed.

Sincerely,

Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D.
President

Saint Louis University is a Catholic, Jesuit institution that values academic excellence, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service. Founded in 1818, the University fosters the intellectual and character development of nearly 13,000 students on two campuses in St. Louis and Madrid, Spain. Building on a legacy of nearly 200 years, Saint Louis University continues to move forward with an unwavering commitment to a higher purpose, a greater good.