Nearly one year and one month after the tragic death of junior Michael Quimpo, students remember him on what would be his graduation this Sunday, May 24. Quimpo committed suicide in an off-campus house on March 27, 2008 at the age of 21.
Quimpo was born on February 6, 1987 in Manila, Philippines. As the son of a missionary physician, Quimpo grew up traveling as his family relocated several times during his childhood. Before moving to Walla Walla to attend Whitman, Quimpo lived in New Guinea, Bangladesh and Nepal. Due to his unique upbringing, Quimpo was quatrilingual: proficient in English, French, Hiligaynon and Tagalog.
During his time at Whitman, Quimpo was highly involved with the Intercultural Center, and participated in many of their activities and events including the Tunnel of Oppression and the International Banquet.
At the time of his death, Quimpo had recently finished applying for transfer to Columbia University as part of Whitman’s 3/2 engineering program, under the guidance of mathematics professor Bob Fontenot. At Columbia, he planned to pursue a degree in computer science.
“It was clear to me that he was kind and thoughtful and that he had a well-developed, almost sly, sense of humor. I am sad that he is no longer here to love, and be loved by, his family and friends,” said Fontenot.
Following his death, the campus rallied around Quimpo and his family, as students, faculty and staff attended numerous prayer and memorial services to honor him. During one memorial service 18 members of Michael’s family joined the Whitman community in showing pictures, telling stories and singing songs in his memory.
Shortly after their trip to Whitman, Quimpo’s family wrote a letter to the college community in Michael’s memory. The letter encouraged current Whitman students to look out for one another, continuing to give love and support to their peers.
“If there are any lessons to be learned, and we hope there are, some lessons are about communicating with each other. Let your parents, friends, and loved ones know where you are, and how you are. It is a kindness,” said the letter.
