Manchester University plans memorial, offers update

For immediate release Monday, Feb. 22, 2016

Manchester University President Dave McFadden sent an email to the University community on Monday afternoon. Anything in quotes is directly from the email with “As we move through our grief together” as the subject line:

“Manchester has always been a place of love and community, and it found full expression in the past 36 hours. Thank you for the many ways you are supporting each other as we mourn the loss of Nerad, Brook and Kirubel.”

“First, I am delighted to report that Israel Tamire continues to recover from injuries he suffered in Sunday morning’s accident. Some of his relatives are now with Israel at the hospital.” 

Cards and letters for Israel and for the families affected may be sent to the Office of the President,  604 E. College Ave., North Manchester, IN 46962. Please indicate on the envelope who they are for. We will make sure the appropriate people receive your messages of support.  

“A number of people are asking about making monetary gifts that could be used to honor the students and/or provide support for their families. We have established the International Student Emergency Fund, a temporary fund that will help offset travel and other expenses for the families. Additionally, we are working out details of memorial funds to honor Nerad, Brook and Kirubel. All contributions may be sent or delivered to the President’s Office and we will ensure that those gifts are used in the spirit in which they are given.”

Donations may also be given online.

The University also working out the details of a memorial service for Nerad Grace Mangai, Brook M. Dagnew and Kirubel Alemayehu Hailu. As soon as we know a time, date and place we will share that information.

Counselors remain available for students, faculty and staff as the close-knit community comes together to help each other.

“Manchester is a special place. We have had too many reasons to draw together and support one another this year, but know that our kindness and compassion are limitless. I know we will support each other with abundant care in the days ahead and I am grateful for each and every one of you.”

The Career and Internship Fair planned for Feb. 24 has been postponed to Wednesday, March 9. It will be from 2 to 4 p.m. in the upper level of the Jo Young Switzer Center.

Manchester University, with campuses in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., offers more than 60 areas of academic study to 1,500 students in undergraduate programs, a Master of Athletic Training and a four-year professional Doctor of Pharmacy.  Learn more about the private, northern Indiana school at www.manchester.edu.

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For the media:
Contact Anne Gregory in media relations via email at aggregory@manchester.edu or by at 260-982-5285 and leave a message or text 260-417-5061. Calls and texts will be answered in the order they are received.
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