Hamline students support victims in Japan

Candle lighting for victims in Japan (Hamline China Club photos)

AAP staff report

ST. PAUL (April 19, 2011) – The Hamline University China Club concluded its fundraiser to support the victims of the Japan earthquake and tsunami with a dinner on Tuesday, celebrating the successful first project of the new organizations and to remember those lost and still suffering in the disaster.

Following the introduction of Hamline China Club members, a group that includes Chinese nationals and non-Chinese who are taking Chinese language classes, and even one Japanese student, the announcement was made that the groups raised $1036.20 in just a few short weeks from students, staff and faculty donating just a dollar or some change.

The money will be given to organizations such as Save the Children and Japan Red Cross Society.

Hamline Professor Steven Jongewaard and Ms. Chiu Ting Lan from Taiwan were both recognized for donating $100 each to the campaign. They and the other generous donors were praised by the organization for giving them the motivation to continue pursuing donations of just $1 or more from Hamline students, staff and faculty members.

China Club President Qiuchi “Angela” Zhou said the dinner was a huge success and a several students showed up to support the cause and also for the Chinese food from Szhechuan restaurant.

“At the end of the dinner, audience gave us a round applause,” said Zhou. “It was Hamline China Club’s first event, and it was so successful. Many people even donated again during the dinner.”

Following dinner the guests were invited to play Chinese games, tackle some riddles and learn to use chopsticks to pick up red beans.

The event concluded with a candle lighting ceremony for the victims in Japan.

China Club members started their campaign on April 11th and hoped to complete their goal by April 17th. They are placing donation boxes throughout the campus and setting up tables Sorin Hall, the Bush Student Center, and the Giddens Learning Center.