Reporters cover derecho helpers

August 26, 2020

Cornell College welcomed the facilities team from the University of Dubuque to campus on Thursday, Aug. 20, to help with routine maintenance as Cornell’s team focuses on storm repairs. 

University of Dubuque
A member of the University of Dubuque’s facilities team mows for Cornell College

The visiting team of five mowed, weeded, raked, and much more. The work was greatly appreciated following the Aug. 10 derecho that damaged more than 100 Hilltop trees. The winds also significantly damaged the roofs of about 20 campus buildings.

Local media covered the teamwork, including KWWL, the Gazette, and The Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun.

Following the visit from the University of Dubuque, Central College and Luther College facilities workers also came to help with campus upkeep. 

This volunteer effort started when leaders associated with the Iowa Association of Independent Colleges and Universities reached out to institutions impacted by the derecho, looking for ways to help. Cornell, Central, Luther, and the University of Dubuque are all part of that organization.