Chinese woman’s search for kind former foreign tutor sparks flood of shared memories
A Chinese woman’s quest to reconnect with a former foreign teacher who profoundly influenced her outlook on life has sparked a collective online effort to locate him. Wang Yu, a community worker in Shanghai, graduated from East China Normal University in 2005 with a degree in tourism management. Wang informed the SCMP that the teacher, known only as Evans, was an American who taught her an…
Chinese community worker Wang Yu from Shanghai reached out to reconnect with a former American tutor, known only as Evans, who significantly impacted her life. Evans, an American who taught Wang English during her university years at East China Normal University in 2005, offered free tutoring outside class hours and even set up a small photo studio in the university reception area, capturing cherished memories for his students.
Wang, who estimates Evans to be in his 70s, recalls his distinctive appearance - curly grey hair, tailored suits, and fluent Mandarin - and a unique teaching style that involved arranging desks and chairs in a circle, allowing students to sing, deliver speeches, and perform magic tricks. Evans even shared the joy of making dumplings with his students, fostering a strong bond with Wang and boosting her confidence in her English skills.
Wang and Evans shared a common love for Chinese culture, with Evans adopting the Chinese name Wen Xiaofan, reflecting his passion for sailing and admiration for Zhuangzi's free-spirited philosophy. The two became close enough for Wang to adopt Evans' English name, Grace, inspired by Evans' grandmother's middle name. Wang last saw Evans during a summer holiday when they explored Shanghai together, and the photographs they took remain among her most treasured memories.
Wang posted an English letter on RedNote in August, hoping to locate Evans, and the post quickly gained traction as former students shared memories and clues about his whereabouts. One former student noted Evans' habit of carrying a thick English dictionary and fondly remembered him singing "Scarborough Fair" and "You Are My Sunshine" in class.
Another recalled his magic tricks and consistent reminders to wear helmets while cycling. A US-based online user suggested that Evans may have moved to Hawaii but has since relocated. Wang, who has prepared gifts for Teachers' Day, is willing to welcome any form of contact from Evans, expressing her hope that he is safe and happy in the world.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
