SHAW UNIVERSITY RAVAGED BY TORNADO

Shaw University has canceled classes for the rest of the semester after a powerful storm ravaged the institution's downtown campus in Raleigh, N.C., on Saturday, April 16, the News & Observer reported. "Because of the substantial damage, we have made the decision to officially close the school," Shaw's president, Irma McClaurin, said. "The campus is difficult to navigate, trees are down, and glass is everywhere . . . Many students are in shock."

The semester had been set to end on May 7; ending the semester early created a host of new problems for the university. Students' grades will be determined by the work that they have completed so far this semester. The university is also focused on assessing the damage and helping students in need.

Mechanics and Farmers Bank has set up a disaster relief fund for Shaw University in wake of the devastating storm damage the school sustained in Saturday’s tornado.

Tax deductible contributions may be sent to:

Shaw University 
Disaster Relief Fund
Mechanics and Farmers Bank
13 E. Hargett Street
Raleigh, NC  27601 

The University is a long-standing client of BSF and we fully support their relief efforts.  For more information, visit the University's website.