By (June 13, 2008)

Black Faculty and Staff Association Raises Funds for Local Family

UAlbany's Black Faculty and Staff Association raised more than $6,000 in the wake of the tragic death of 10-year-old Kathina Thomas, daughter of Chartwells employee Shondell McAllister. Donations helped support the family, including the costs of Kathina's funeral held Monday at the Blessed Hope Worship Center on Central Avenue.

Contributions were received from across the UAlbany campus, as well as community groups and individuals throughout the Capital Region.

"The UAlbany community has responded with compassion in the wake of this tragedy, and I thank the Black Faculty and Staff Association for leading the fund-raising effort," said Interim President George Philip. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Ms. McAllister and her family during this unimaginably difficult time."

Thomas, a fourth grader at the Sheridan Preparatory Academy, was killed by a stray bullet in front of her home on May 29.

"While no amount of money could ever begin to assuage the pain associated with the loss of a child, we believe that acts of kindness and support will be extremely helpful for Shondell and her family," said D. Ekow King, president of the Black Faculty and Staff Association and director of the Office of Multicultural Student Success.