Josh Delph
  • Disaster Management and Relief
  • Class of 2013
  • Centerville, OH

Josh Delph of Centerville Serves New York City After Hurricane Sandy

2012 Nov 21

Josh Delph of Centerville was part of a team of 14 students from the Ohio Christian University Disaster Management and Relief Program that spent last week responding to New York City in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy.

The team joined forces with The Staten Island Christian Union Church and All Hands, a US-based non-profit organization that provides hands-on assistance to communities around the world. Alongside the church and All Hands, the team was able to serve multiple families suffering after the storm. The effects of the storm caused massive amounts of flooding and water damage to thousands of homes on Staten Island.

OCU is one of fewer than 150 colleges and universities in the country which is training students to respond to emergencies and disasters. The trip allowed the students to put their unique training into practice gaining real-world experience responding to a disaster and addressing the psychical and spiritual needs of those impacted. Director Thad Hicks stated, "In the classroom they learn the theory of emergency and disaster work, but this sort of experience allows them to put the theory into practice, allowing for a more complete education."

As of Fall 2012, more than 3300 students attend Ohio Christian University, making OCU one of the fastest-growing universities in the nation. OCU is committed to offering a complete education that develops students intellectually, professionally and spiritually. OCU offers degree programs for traditional undergraduate students, graduate students, and adult and online students. Additionally, the Trailblazer Academy, OCU's Dual Enrollment/Post Secondary Enrollment Options Program, allows high school students to complete college classes on campus or online. All programs are designed to equip students to become leaders in their careers, communities, families, and the world.