East Tennessee State University (ETSU) students and faculty have rallied together in a remarkable display of community support following recent flooding in the region. During a recent Board of Trustees meeting, Shana Thompson, president of the student organization Letters of Love, shared her personal connection to the affected areas and the swift actions taken by her group to provide assistance.

Thompson, a social work major with roots in Elizabethton, expressed her immediate concern for her family and community as news of the flooding broke. After ensuring her loved ones were safe, she quickly mobilized her organization to respond to the crisis. "We value small acts of kindness that have a big impact," she stated, emphasizing the group's commitment to helping those in need.

In collaboration with other student leaders, Letters of Love organized a blood drive, which became a focal point for community engagement. Over the course of just two days, the initiative resulted in the collection of more than a thousand letters of support from students, faculty, and community members. These heartfelt messages came from a diverse group, including young children and local residents, showcasing the community's solidarity during a challenging time.

The outreach did not stop there; Thompson noted that over 20 student organizations contributed letters, with additional support coming from groups outside the state. This collective effort highlights the strong sense of community at ETSU and the university's role in fostering a culture of compassion and support.

As the university continues to navigate the aftermath of the flooding, the actions taken by Letters of Love serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that collective efforts can have in times of crisis. The Board of Trustees meeting underscored the importance of community engagement and the university's commitment to supporting its students and the broader region in times of need.