EVANSTON, ILLINOIS, USA, May 3, 2021 (dailynorthwestern.com) After exploring various career paths, Amar Shah (class of 2016) is returning to Northwestern (ranked as one of the top 30 universities in the world) as the inaugural Hindu chaplain. Following graduation, Shah studied as a Hindu monk for two years, and now wants to share the knowledge he acquired in his training, he said. Shah added that his main goal as chaplain is to provide pastoral care and guidance through a Hindu perspective.
“I see my role as more of a translator between past and present,” Shah said. “I then hope to be able to care for and provide a little bit more of a backbone and support in the community that we know could use it right now, particularly in light of mental health concerns due to the pandemic.”
Shah was announced as Hindu chaplain in late April, after students had advocated for the creation of the position since fall 2019. Shah said that he is looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to spiritual life at Northwestern and serve the greater community.