Fmr. UM President Shalala Recovering After Stroke
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MIAMI (CBSMiami/AP) - Former University of Miami President Donna Shalala is recovering after suffering a stroke.
Shalala, a former cabinet secretary under President Bill Clinton and current president and CEO of the Clinton Foundation, suffered a stroke Tuesday night in New York after leaving a meeting of the Clinton Global Initiative, the foundation's spinoff organization which seeks solutions to international problems.
The current president of the university Julio Frenk released a statement on the incident saying, "On behalf of the entire University of Miami community, I wish to convey our deep concern for former UM President Donna Shalala, who suffered a stroke last night. We are in continuous contact with her physicians in New York. She received the best and most advanced care, and her prognosis is now encouraging. President Shalala is beloved and respected by thousands of Miami Hurricanes family and friends around the world, and we are very hopeful for her speedy recovery."
Students on UM's campus learned of the news Wednesday, mainly through social media.
"That's really sad. She was really well liked by the student body, she got a lot of stuff done around here, I mean she kind of put us on the map," said UM student Will Ahlemeier.
"I wish Donna Shalala all the best," said fellow student Lanette Suarez, "She was here when I was here and I hope she's doing well. She's an amazing person."
Shalala accepted a position as president of the non-profit earlier this year after leaving UM where she worked for more than a decade as the schools first female president.
According to reports, the 74-year old was with friends when she suffered the stroke. She was said to be alert and making jokes after undergoing surgery.
This morning, Chelsea Clinton, the daughter of former President Bill Clinton and vice chairwoman of the foundation, tweeted out her well wishes:
"My thoughts and prayers are with Donna. Wishing her a full and speedy recovery!"
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