Statement from UMass President Marty Meehan on Olympia Drive apartment complex fires affecting students

While we are incredibly relieved that no one has been injured, the Friday night fire at the Olympia Drive Apartment complex has had a significant impact on the more than 220 affected students who were displaced and lost their personal effects. In recognition of that, I ask all members of the UMass community to keep these students in their thoughts and to consider supporting them directly during this difficult time. The best way to help is by contributing to or sharing information about the UMass Amherst Foundation Student Care and Emergency Response Fund: https://minutefund.uma-foundation.org/project/20457.

I'm deeply appreciative to Chancellor Reyes for his leadership, and thankful for all first responders, the town of Amherst, and so many others who have gone above and beyond to support our affected students and community throughout this weekend. I also wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to Governor Healey, whose consistent outreach, engagement, and partnership throughout the weekend have been an invaluable source of support to our students and the university community.