Tragedy in Nepal

To the Wheaton community: The earthquake that struck Nepal on Saturday has wreaked destruction in Kathmandu and impacted people across the region. The loss of life, the damage to property and the destruction of UNESCO World Heritage sites are devastating. Wheaton College has ties to the region, both through members of our community and our partnership with Royal Thimpu College, in Thimpu, Bhutan, approximately 500 miles from Kathmandu. I am relieved to report that our students and faculty currently studying there, and their colleagues and peers, are safe and well. Tremors from the quake were felt throughout the country, but we are told that there was little or no damage in Bhutan. Still, we know so many others have lost so much.

At times like this, it is clear that we all have a responsibility to care for others. As more information comes from Kathmandu, I’m sure the Wheaton community will organize to send assistance to the area. If you would like to act now, Jenish Amatya ‘17 and his sister Kenchan, who are from Kathmandu, have already begun to raise funds to aid in the rebuilding of their country.  The tragedy in Nepal underscores the fragility of life; our response can highlight the power of our relationships and concern for our neighbors, near and far.

Sincerely, Dennis Hanno President Wheaton College