Helene

The impact of Hurricane and Tropical Storm Helene has been catastrophic, with entire communities in western North Carolina and across the Southeast now facing the daunting task of recovery and rebuilding.

From the President

“We are deeply saddened by the devastation and loss of life caused by Helene,” said President Susan R. Wente. “We recognize that many members of the Wake Forest family — our students, faculty, staff, alumni and their loved ones — are facing tremendous challenges in the storm’s aftermath.

“Though our campus remains fully operational, we are mindful that many communities, including higher education institutions across the region, are grappling with outages, closed roads and other disruptions. Our hearts are with all those affected by this disaster as they work to recover and rebuild.”

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist employees have been volunteering across western North Carolina, in Wilkes County, Boone, Asheville and other areas. They are also delivering relief kits to emergency shelters. The entire aircraft fleet engaged in patient transports, and Atrium Health’s MED-1 Mobile Hospital has deployed to the impacted area. Patient transfers are being accepted from impacted hospitals, long-term care centers and skilled nursing facilities. In addition, the Piedmont Healthcare Preparedness Coalition — part of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and based out of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center — is supporting the state with resources and personnel. 

Outreach to students

Campus Life is reaching out to students whose families may have been affected by the hurricane. So far, more than 200 students have been contacted. The effort is being led by Matt Clifford, the associate vice president for Campus Life and dean of students, and Assistant Dean of Students, Community Response and Caring Outreach Zakiyyah Niang. 

“Our students are feeling the weight of this disaster,” Niang said. “They’re not just worried about the present situation; they’re anxious about the lasting effects on their loved ones and communities. We are doing everything we can to provide help through University channels, and it’s reassuring to hear that many are finding comfort in the solidarity of their fellow students.”

Academic impact

Faculty and staff have been encouraged to extend grace, flexibility and understanding to the many impacted students. Undergraduate students are encouraged to find academic support through the Office of Academic Advising.

Athletics

Wake Forest has reached out to impacted schools in the area, including Appalachian State and UNC Asheville, to offer support, resources and practice space. Video boards will promote financial donations for storm relief.