October 1, 2001

University Students Raise Funds for New York City Relief Effort

Students at the University of Rochester's River Campus and the Eastman School of Music collected more than $30,000 through fundraising events for the New York City Relief Fund of the American Red Cross.

Students on the River Campus exceeded their $20,000 goal by selling white ribbons and accepting donations following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and by holding two benefit concerts. Concerts on Sept. 21 and 22 featured performances by student a cappella groups, a student improvisational comedy troupe, student jugglers, and an a cappella group from Boston.

Meng Wang, former Students' Association president and a student organizer for the effort, called the support from members of the University community "simply amazing." Students, staff, faculty, and area businesses contributed to the fund.

On Sept. 23, more than 1,500 people attended a performance of Mozart's Requiem at the Eastman Theatre. The performance by the Eastman Philharmonia, the premier student orchestra of the Eastman School of Music, and a community chorus of more than 150 singers attracted more than $9,200 in contributions.

On Friday, Oct. 5, students in the voice and opera program at the Eastman School will hold an evening of opera arias and ensembles to raise additional support for the Red Cross fund. It will be held at 8 p.m. in Kilbourn Hall, 26 Gibbs St.