Ahead Of Aggie-LSU Game, Texas A&M Launches Fundraiser To Help Louisiana Flood Victims

This summer’s flooding in Louisiana was the worst natural disaster in the U.S. since Hurricane Sandy four years ago, so in anticipation of the Texas A&M-LSU football game on Thanksgiving day, students at Texas A&M have launched a fundraising campaign called “Side by Side” to aid LSU students, faculty and staff members who’ve suffered damage or displacement from the catastrophic flooding.

Donations can be made by visiting www.sidebyside.tamu.edu.

The fundraiser is a student-led effort under the direction of Texas A&M Student Body President Hannah Wimberly and Executive Vice President Dan Rosenfield.

“Aggies give back—it is simply what we do, whether on campus, in the community, or in the nation and world, we consistently strive to better the lives of those around us,” says Wimberly. “This fundraiser is an easy, yet incredibly meaningful, way for us to support and give back to the LSU and Baton Rouge community that were so devastated by these floods.”

President Young says he’s pleased to see Aggies are, by such actions, demonstrating the university’s core values. “The dedication of Aggies to serve others never ceases to amaze me, but selfless service is a core value here – it is central to who we are,” he notes. “I am incredibly proud of our passionate students for stepping up to make a difference in the lives of those affected by the recent devastating floods in Louisiana.”

Chancellor Sharp echoed Young’s sentiments, saying these types of efforts are oft-practiced by Aggies. “I was proud, but not surprised, when our Texas A&M student body offered to help the students, faculty and staff of LSU,” said Chancellor Sharp. “It is fitting that on a day of Thanksgiving we pause during our competition to offer aid and comfort to our LSU neighbors.”

Aggies were inspired to take action not only by the Thanksgiving spirit, but also by the Aggie Spirit, Rosenfield notes. “What makes Aggieland special are projects like this — where Aggies are making an impact on students and faculty who may never step foot in the state of Texas,” he says. “We understand the dire need of those at LSU, and we want to be the change makers the Tigers deserve.”

Wimberly says the Side By Side campaign welcomes donations from all sources: Texas A&M students, faculty and staff members, Aggie and LSU fans, friends and community members, and anyone else willing to help. “In this busy time of the year, there are many deserving funds to support, so any amount will help us get to our goal and show LSU that Aggies everywhere support them.”

Donate at www.sidebyside.tamu.edu.