Honoring 20 Years of Resilience
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina changed our city—and our university—forever. These reflections from Tulane faculty and staff honor the strength, resilience, and sense of community that helped us rebuild and move forward together.
We invite you to read their stories, remember this pivotal moment in our history, and join us in honoring those who helped shape our recovery.
Click on the names below.
Special Feature: The School of Architecture’s Journey
After Katrina, Tulane’s School of Architecture relocated its thesis class to Arizona State University, where students and faculty continued their work while reimagining New Orleans. Out of that experience came two lasting programs—URBANbuild and Small Center—which have since produced over 50 community-driven projects across the city. The full story also includes a collection of photos from the time.
Read the full story
" Tulane employees received donated funds from employees at colleges and universities around the world. The Higher Education community is truly unlike any other community. "
— Lisa LeBlanc, Manager, Accounts Payable
" That first Mardi Gras in 2006, when there was no one here but the locals who were re-building… I knew then that I loved the city and would be staying here for a while. "
— Staff member, Tulane University
" The dedication shown by Drs. Julie Larrieu and Charles Zeanah toward rebuilding their program was highly influential in my decision to return to New Orleans. "
— Devi Murphy, Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
A sincere thank you to all who shared their memories.
Your reflections capture the resilience, strength, and spirit of our Tulane community in the days, months, and years after Hurricane Katrina. While we weren’t able to publish every submission, each story we received is valued and appreciated. We invite you to explore the additional stories below, honoring the experiences and voices that helped shape our recovery.
