Eduardo J. Padrón
President
Office of the President
300 N.E. Second Avenue
Miami, Florida 33132-2297
305-237-3316
epadron@mdc.edu
Message From the President
Monday, May 12, 2008
Start of Atlantic Hurricane Season Just Around the Corner
Hurricane season is still a few weeks away, but it's never too early to begin emergency preparations. Forecasters predict a "well above average" 2008 hurricane season, with 15 named tropical storms gathering between June 1 and Nov. 30.
MDC Alerts will be one of the College's main communication tools during hurricane season. If you have not already registered to receive alerts via the College's new wireless emergency notification system, please click here to sign up now.
The College's contingency plan is in place and I strongly encourage each of you to review your personal emergency plans. You may wish to consult human resources' Hurricane Preparedness Guides.
Although the state is skipping the sales tax holiday on hurricane supplies this year, it is important to review and restock your emergency supply kit for the 2008 season.
During hurricane season, emergency information will be communicated via the following primary vehicles:
- MDC Hotline: 305-237-7500. Provides general information and updates.
- MDC Employee Hotline: 305-237-7505. Provides more detailed information about College and campus conditions and plans.
- MDC Alerts: Registered users will receive an alert from the College's new wireless emergency notification system when there are recommended protective actions or a change in normally scheduled College operations. As mentioned above, if you have not signed up for MDC Alerts, please do so by clicking here.
- MDC Home page: www.mdc.edu. Provides general information and updates.
- Local media: Postings regarding College closing and reopening information and other important news will be communicated to the major media.
In the event that the College does close during hurricane season, please call the MDC Employee Hotline at least once daily to receive instructions and the latest information regarding the status of classes and operations.
Communication is vital in supporting our MDC community. If you or your family need help in the aftermath of a storm, please contact your immediate supervisor.
Thank you for taking the time to safely equip your work and home environments. Let's work together to make this hurricane season as safe as possible.
Thank you.
Eduardo