In the aftermath of flood damage to the Delta Music Institute\u2019s Whitfield Building on Nov. 30, President William N. LaForge has taken initiative with a personal lead gift going directly to recovery efforts.<\/p>\n
The cause of the flood was a ruptured old chilled water line that serviced an air handler on the east side of Whitfield. This line was on top of a rooftop air handler located directly above DMI offices and classrooms.<\/p>\n
Since it ruptured above the air handler, instead of dripping directly down from one floor to the next, the water was somewhat blown through the air ducts throughout most of the area.<\/p>\n
While the accident avoided the recording studios, most of the classrooms, offices, furniture, computers, ceiling tiles and teaching equipment were severely damaged on the eastern portion of the facility.<\/p>\n
Delta State\u2019s response to the emergency was quick, and the institution continues to pursue all necessary recovery procedures under the leadership of Steven McClellan, Vice President for Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer.<\/p>\n
LaForge, a lifelong musician, developed a personal connection with the catastrophe shortly after arriving on scene to assist Facilities Management with cleanup.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou hate to see such valuable things destroyed and instruments lost. We\u2019re talking about several hundred thousand dollars when all is said and done,\u201d said LaForge. \u201cThe DMI is an important component of the university, and as president of Delta State, I think this is one of the many programs that deserve our attention and support at this time.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIf anyone wants to make a donation \u2014 completely on a volunteer basis \u2014 it\u2019s not beneath me to ask, particularly in this season of giving,\u201d added LaForge. \u201cIf anyone has charitable dollars to donate before the end of the year, it\u2019s going to a very worthy cause.\u201d<\/p>\n
Those wishing to contribute to recovery efforts can do so online with ease and convenience through the Delta State Foundation link: https:\/\/www.deltastategiving.org\/Fund\/Give\/14<\/a>. Your tax-deductible contribution could go towards rejuvenating offices and classrooms, and purchasing replacement equipment.<\/p>\n Gifts can also be made over the phone by calling 662-846-4704, or through mail to: Delta State University Foundation, DSU Box 3141, Cleveland, MS 38733. A memo should be made indicating DMI flood recovery.<\/p>\n DMI Director Tricia Walker said the Delta State family has always been recognized as a giving community, especially to causes held near and dear to green and white faithful.<\/p>\n \u201cSo many people have an affection for the Whitfield Building \u2014 some alumni have come back and been devastated to see the damage,\u201d said Walker. \u201cWe understand that people are asked to give often, and we are extremely thankful for everyone digging deep in their support.<\/p>\n \u201cReplacing some of the damaged equipment quickly will be needed in order to continue our teaching and providing service to the community. In that regard, the help and support is needed.\u201d<\/p>\n Walker added that a positive attitude from faculty and staff has helped DMI students adapt to a difficult situation, but returning to a sense of normalcy would be nice by the start of the spring 2014 semester.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have a very generous community and state, especially in the so-called \u2018impoverished Delta,\u2019\u201d said LaForge. \u201cSo many folks give charitable support to Delta State, and we are very appreciative of everyone\u2019s consideration.\u201d<\/p>\n To learn more about the difference your gift can make to this fund, please email foundation@deltastate.edu<\/a><\/span>\u00a0or call 662-846-4704.<\/p>\n