Before joining NC State College of Design this fall, I worked at Appalachian State University for over three years. During this time, my family and I lived in Boone, learned to love the mountains, and were warmly welcomed by its community. People in Appalachia are some of the kindest, most resilient, hard-working, and generous individuals we've ever met.
On September 27th, this community and the place we used to call home were severely hit by Hurricane Helene. According to NOAA, the storm brought 40 trillion gallons of water to Western North Carolina (enough to cover the entire state with 3.5 feet of water), causing historic floodings as the mountains funneled rainwater into the valleys.
The scale of the destruction is hard to comprehend. Entire communities disappeared, homes and businesses were destroyed, roads and bridges were washed away, hundreds lost their lives, and thousands lost everything they owned.
Seeing so much pain, destruction, and suffering in a place we love and was so welcoming to us has been emotionally devastating. Even though our friends are safe and in good health, they are dealing with the aftermath of this catastrophe and the challenges of rebuilding their lives.
Fortunately, people from across the country have stepped up to offer their help and support the relief efforts, but it will take years for these communities to physically, financially, and emotionally recover.
Please keep these communities in your thoughts for the weeks, months, and years to come. As academics, we can contribute by raising awareness among our students, engaging in projects that support recovery, and using our intellect and creativity to aid in the reconstruction of Western North Carolina.
Please also consider donating to organizations aiding recovery efforts or directly supporting families and small businesses affected by Helene. The recovery process has only just begun and will require significant support in the months and years ahead.
