As the coronavirus pandemic upends daily life for millions around the globe, Booth alumni are stepping up to help their companies and communities in a multitude of ways—from launching grassroots fundraising efforts, to launching new initiatives within their organizations, to supporting those on the front lines of the fight.
“I learned at Booth that we have a social responsibility to try to make an impact,” said Qingquan (Tony) Zhang, ’15, who organized a fundraising drive that delivered much-needed masks and protective equipment to China in late January, when the virus was spreading rapidly there. “I received an education from one of the top universities in the world, and I feel it’s my duty to help others.”
In another grassroots effort, Booth alumni in Shanghai stepped up and immediately responded this April when they learned of UChicago Medicine’s dire need for personal protective equipment (PPE) to fight COVID-19. Organized by Cindy Zhao, ’02, and supported by a generous donation from Dave Chenn, ’00, as well as contributions from dozens of other alumni, the fundraiser ultimately raised $112,000 for the Medical Center.
“Since we were just coming out of a total lockdown in China, many alumni responded with an earnest desire to support our alma mater,” Zhao said. “I started to receive donations within one minute.”
Learn more about the alumni initiative in China
Read on to find out how other Booth alumni around the globe are doing what they can to help out during this crisis, from vaccine research to meal donations to employee support.
Want to highlight a Booth graduate who’s making a difference? Send a note to editor@chicagobooth.edu.