March 13, 2007

Hurricane Katrina out of the headlines,
but not the hearts of Dana College students

BLAIR, NEB. — Hurricane Katrina ravaged the Gulf Coast region more than 18 months ago. The story is no longer in the national headlines, but it remains in the hearts of Dana College students. Next week, for the fourth time since the disaster in August 2005, a group of Dana students will travel to the Gulf Coast to assist with rebuilding efforts.

Thirty-five are planning to make the trip. For junior students Jeni Lindsteadt of Hastings, Neb., and Heather Hall of Arlington, Neb., this is their third trip of service to the Gulf. Although they are unsure exactly what they will be doing, the call to serve is still very strong. “We just know there is a need, and we’re going to fulfill it,” Lindsteadt said.

As on Dana’s last spring break trip in March 2006, the students will be working in Slidell, La., through Operation Blessing, an international non-profit humanitarian organization.

Hall said one of the great benefits of the trip was the community of Dana students that formed while working in Louisiana. The students come from all parts of the Dana community, but come together as one unit while volunteering.

The students will leave Saturday and drive through the night. They plan to begin their return trip Thursday afternoon or Friday morning.

For more information, contact:
Carrie L. Reed, director of college relations and marketing,
402-426-7385, creed@dana.edu