We have all been shocked and saddened by the events unfolding in Haiti due to the devastating earthquake that hit the country last week. It is hard to fathom what it means to have 50,000 lives lost, hundreds of thousands of people displaced from their homes, and entire cities, towns, and villages destroyed. By all accounts, Port-au-Prince and many towns and villages throughout Haiti will require significant financial assistance to rebuild, and it may be years before a sense of normalcy is restored to this nation which has been disproportionately affected by natural disasters.

The Association for Institutional Research would like to pass along its condolences to those members who have been either directly or indirectly affected by the earthquake in Haiti. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who have loved ones in Haiti or know of friends and colleagues who have been impacted by the earthquake.

One of the things that has always impressed me about the AIR community is our members’ tremendous compassion for each other. I have seen countless instances where we have pulled together to support one another in times of need.

I strongly encourage each member to do what you can to help support the relief efforts in Haiti. There are numerous opportunities to help through local efforts in your communities and on your campuses. Donations may also be made through organizations such as the Red Cross http://www.redcross.org/ and UNICEF http://www.unicefusa.org/. Any assistance you can provide to the people of Haiti would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your consideration.

Rob Toutkoushian
President, AIR