(August 27, 2012)

Centenary opens doors for Dillard University once again ahead of Isaac

SHREVEPORT, LA — Centenary College will again host sister institution Dillard University on campus in preparation for Tropical Storm Isaac's landfall as a hurricane. Dillard officials opted to evacuate approximately 150 students and staff from its campus in New Orleans' Gentilly neighborhood although no formal evacuation order was issued. Centenary hosted Dillard in 2005 following Hurricane Katrina and in 2008 for Hurricanes Gustav and Ike.

"As United Methodist institutions, Centenary and Dillard have close ties that were made even closer back in 2005 following Hurricane Katrina," said Matt Bailey, Senior Director of Marketing & Communication. "We welcomed Dillard students with open doors and open hearts then, and we're ready to do it again for Tropical Storm Isaac. The Centenary family is rallying to support these students and administrators during what we hope will be only a short-term inconvenience."

Centenary officials are preparing cots, bedding, and other conveniences to create a home away from home for the Dillard guests who are expected to arrive late Monday evening. Temporary living spaces will be located in the Centenary Fitness Center, Rotary Residence Hall, and Cline Residence Hall and will include access to television and wireless internet. Dillard students will also have full access to the dining hall. Centenary student leaders are already planning ways to help their fellow students settle in upon arrival.

During Hurricane Katrina, approximately 230 Dillard students along with some faculty and staff stayed in the Centenary Fitness Center and Gold Dome during Hurricane Katrina before being picked up by family members or provided transportation home. More recently, Centenary hosted contingents from Dillard for brief periods during Hurricanes Ike and Gustav in 2008.

Visit Centenary's hurricane information page for updates.

Centenary communicates with students, faculty, and staff via a text message alert system for weather emergencies and other urgent information. The College also shares important information regarding campus closures and weather situations via Twitter and Facebook.