THE BLACK COLLEGIAN and Black College Wire forged a fruitful partnership several months ago in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Student writers reported on the historic devastation that changed the course of many lives, including their own. Now, as the universities in New Orleans battle seemingly insurmountable odds, these writers have once again taken on the task of telling the stories of their fellow students, along with faculty and administrators, who are trying to extract from the chaos something that resembles normal college life.

That hasn't happened yet.

But what is occurring is an incredible undertaking – a robust effort to continue to educate students and prepare them for meaningful lives amid the most massive reconstruction project in recent history. Oddly, what better place to educate young adults than in a city in crisis, a city that needs the help, cooperation and fighting spirit of all its residents? New Orleans, in its recovery mode, presents unique opportunities for college students. As the articles in this issue reveal, a majority of the college students returned this semester, while only about a fourth of the city's other residents found their way back.

In effect, the students are playing a major role in the revitalization of New Orleans. As the campuses struggle to provide services, the city is not yet prepared for the returning population. Most stores, restaurants, beauty salons, cleaners and other businesses are still closed. As a result, students have fewer conveniences and comforts than they had in the past. Yet, they are the likely workforce and customer base for the city. Not only will students be hired, they will have the opportunity to move into higher-paying positions at an accelerated rate.

And finally, the writers who tell the stories of the physical and emotional struggles facing the colleges are learning to cover disasters while aiding in the recovery process by providing readers with an inside view of the post-Katrina struggle. Rarely, if ever, do college journalists encounter stories of this magnitude. The articles they produced for this project may be among the most significant stories they will write in their professional careers. So, out of this tragedy new careers may emerge, and many doors may open for future opportunities.

Many thanks to editors Richard Prince and Jean Thompson for once again making this collaboration a success.

Pearl Stewart, Founder and coordinator, Black College Wire at www.BlackCollegeWire.org.