Villanova's Undergraduate Nursing Senate contributes to Haiti relief

Villanova, PA, April 13, 2010 — The Undergraduate Nursing Senate (UNS) of Villanova University’s College of Nursing has a long history of public service and fundraising efforts to support the College’s mission. For decades it has run a highly successful blood drive on campus with the American Red Cross and last year it donated over 100 winter coats to children who did not have one.

In January, the nursing students were immediately moved by the plight of Haitians caught in the catastrophic 7.0 earthquake that rocked the Port-au-Prince area on January 12th. “The Undergraduate Nursing Senate knew right away that we needed to reach out. Our fundraiser from the fall was very successful, so we figured why not use some of that money. When someone needs a hand, we lend them a hand. We pride ourselves on our excellent service to the community,” say Keri Nagel and Tara Duggan, senior nursing students and co-presidents of UNS.

The UNS Board unanimously agreed to donate $500 to the University’s Haiti fund to be given to Catholic Relief Services in Haiti. This donation sent the University donation over the $19,000 mark. The students see the big picture. “Whether in the United States, or a small island such as Haiti, a tragedy affects the lives of millions. By donating $500, we are lending them our hands to assist them with recovery,” explain the co-presidents.