Maryville University Dean in Haiti; Sabbatical Mission Turns into Relief Effort
1/13/10
In the midst of news about the devastating earthquake, Maryville University has learned that Charles Gulas, PhD, dean of the School of Health Professions, is safe in Haiti and able to assist with local relief efforts. Dean Gulas is there on sabbatical this month, working with Health Volunteers Overseas in Deschapelles, Haiti.
Gulas has been teaching prevention and treatment skills to local health care providers at Hopital Albert Schweitzer. He reports on his blog, drgulas.com, that the hospital is receiving patients from Port Au Prince, located two hours away. He is able to keep in touch with co-workers, family and friends sporadically through email.
The American Red Cross is asking for monetary donations for tents to house people, purchase of medical supplies and other needed supplies. Those who want to help in the relief effort may call the local Red Cross at 314.516.2700 to make a monetary donation or visit redcross.org. Donors can ask that their contributions be designated for Haiti relief efforts on behalf of Dean Gulas and Maryville University.
Donations may also be sent directly to Hospital Albert Schweitzer, where supplies are running low, Gulas reported.
As part of his sabbatical, Gulas is teaching in the Rehabilitation Aide Training Program at the Hospital Albert Schweitzer. Health Volunteers Overseas, a private, non-profit organization, educates health care providers in developing countries to improve the availability and quality of health care. The focus is on both treatment and prevention of local diseases and health conditions.
About Maryville University
Founded in 1872, Maryville University is a four-year, private university located in west St. Louis County. Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of America’s Best Colleges in the Masters-Midwest category, Maryville University students may choose from 50 academic programs, including degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels. Among recent graduates, 82 percent are employed or attending graduate school. More than 16,000 Maryville alumni work and live in the St. Louis region.