Support Dr. Gais' Family After Devastating Tornado

Support Dr. Gais and Her Family After Devastating Tornado

Thank you to everyone who has reached out with concern and kindness for Dr. Gais and her family following the tornado. This past week has been unimaginably difficult, but the outpouring of love and support from the WashU community has been incredible.

My name is Madison Stein (WashU 2025) and I was a student of Dr. Gais. Not only has she been an incredible teacher, but she has also been a mentor and friend to me throughout my time at WashU. In the aftermath of the tornado, I reached out asking how I could help. Considering the overwhelming challenges ahead of her and her family, she asked me to set up this GoFundMe page to coordinate offers of support from the WashU community.

On May 16th, an EF-3 tornado tore through St. Louis, leaving a path of destruction in its wake. While we are incredibly grateful that everyone is safe, their house suffered catastrophic damage: the roof was ripped off, the third floor destroyed, windows shattered, and both of their cars totaled. Their home is uninhabitable, and they have moved into their old apartment building in the Central West End. As they navigate this uncertain and overwhelming time, we are asking for your help.

All contributions will go directly toward helping Dr. Gais and her family as they navigate the long process of rebuilding their home. Please feel free to share this information with other members of the WashU community. Dr. Gais has also shared that she would love to receive notes from her students and colleagues with updates on their adventures over the summer. Thank you for your support and generosity.

To learn more about the tornado’s impact on St. Louis:

STL Public Radio

FOX Weather Before and After Photos