Climbing accident takes life of CWC student

A tragic climbing accident took the life of a CWC student this weekend. Jonathan MacDonald, 23, died Friday Aug. 28 on Pingora Peak in the Southern Wind River Mountains.

In 2011, MacDonald graduated from CWC in outdoor education and leadership and later continued his education at CWC in the nursing program; he was in his second year in the program.

MacDonald was originally from Scottsbluff, Neb. and was currently living in Lander with his wife and daughter. He was a Search and Rescue volunteer and a cherished member in the Lander community and at CWC.

A memorial service will be at the Sinks Canyon Center in Lander Thursday, Sept. 3 from 6-8 pm.

“We are a close-knit  family here at CWC and anytime we lose a member of our campus community it is devastating,” said Steve Barlow, assistant dean for student affairs. “Our hearts and prayers go out to the friends and family during this difficult time. He was an outstanding student; loved by members in the outdoor education and nursing programs.”

Support for students is available through counseling services at 855-2175 or 855-2011. Support for employees is available through the CWC employee assistance program at 1-800-854-1446.