Tsunami compassion

Over Christmas break, south Asia was hit with a devastating blow when a massive tsunami swept across the Indian Ocean. With the death toll now surpassing 150,000, international powers are gathering to form the largest relief effort in years.

Ordinary citizens, businesses and organizations are among those contributing to the pool of monetary relief. On that list should be those who make a difference here.

Students and student organizations, for example, have worked to raise money for those hit hardest by the tsunami.

So far, the university has received more than $50,000 in donations from the campus community, trustees and regents -- and the drive to raise money still continues.

We believe that the efforts to raise money for tsunami victims are a testament to our mission as a Jesuit university. When others are in need, it is our obligation to help. And as a leading institution rooted in humanitarian values and social justice, it is our responsibility to lead the way in relief.

We believe that this outreach reflects our ideals of compassion, regardless of the miles that separate our campus from those affected the most.

We learn what it means to be discerning citizens in the classroom and in our residential learning communities, but now its time to apply that knowledge to a greater need.

Santa Clara's mobilization to help people halfway across the world should be met with praise. It is in our hope that the student body and neighboring communities will join this relief effort to help those affected by this terrible tragedy.

Most of the work now in Asia is dedicated to recovering and rebuilding shattered lives. So how can you help? Look out for groups on campus organizing drives, or take the initiative and call the Red Cross to ask how you can best donate your time and money.