Remembrance of the 1953 Tornado

An email message sent to the campus community on June 9, 2024:

Dear Assumption Community,

In 1953, a catastrophic tornado swept through the Worcester area, killing 94 people, injuring 1,288 and all but destroying the original campus of Assumption College in the Greendale section of Worcester, MA. Among the deaths were a priest and two nuns at the College. Along with the dozens of others who lost their lives that day, they are in the Assumption community’s prayers and memories today. 

The tornado struck the campus at 5:10pm. At this time, wherever you are, please take a moment to observe. It is an indelible part of who we are today, of the history of the University, and of the countless people—from Assumption students and faculty to our neighbors in Central Massachusetts—whose suffering and inspiring resilience deserve an enduring place in our memories.

Sincerely,

Greg Weiner, Ph.D.
President