Photo by Justin Knight
Senator Mary L. Landrieu presents Howard University students with a gift on behalf of the City of the New Orleans.

WASHINGTON – United States Senator Mary L. Landrieu (D-La.) hosted a reception on Thursday, May 1, at Howard University to honor the nearly 600 students who volunteered in New Orleans during spring recess. This is third consecutive service mission to the region in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

“I want to personally thank Howard University for stepping up and making a significant difference,” Landrieu said. “The University send the most students over the longest period. We are grateful for all you have done.”

The senator charged students to use their degrees to fight for better laws. Following a presentation to the students, Senator Landrieu fielded questions from students on recovery efforts and legislation she is spearheading to address deficiencies in disaster plans including health care, housing and education to name a few.

To date, more than 1200 Howard University students, faculty and staff have journeyed to the affected region to help in the recovery effort as part of the Alternative Spring Break program sponsored by the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel.