Supporting Each Other in Times of Grief

Editor’s Note: President Dennis Assanis and Vice President José-Luis Riera shared this message with the university community on August 28, 2024.

Dear UD Community,

Late last night, a University of Delaware freshman died in a traffic accident near campus, witnessed by many friends and classmates. Incidents like this are unimaginably tragic. We cannot express enough how sorry we are to the family, friends, and community at large, as we are all deeply shaken by the sudden loss of one of our own. Our hearts are very heavy today.

We know that many students, parents, and other members of our community are joining us in expressing their grief and deep concern. At this time, we are withholding the student’s name out of respect for the family’s privacy. Especially in a time like this, we must all come together, lean on one another, and do so with increased kindness and empathy. Together, we are stronger, and we must live this truth in the days ahead. We are one Blue Hen community.

As a new academic year begins, we want to remind returning members of our community and inform all new Blue Hens of the services available here at UD. More information about support resources appears at the bottom of this email. Additionally, safety is our primary concern at UD, so we encourage you to familiarize yourself with the services offered by the University of Delaware Police and other units.

Please know that the University is here for you. Thank you for being such a caring and supportive community.

Sincerely,

Dennis Assanis, President

José-Luis Riera, Vice President for Student Life

Resources and Support

For any student needing support or assistance, Student Life offers a variety of resources:

• Today (August 28) until 4:30 p.m., staff members from Student Advocacy and Support and the Center for Counseling and Student Development (CCSD) will be at the South Academy residence hall to support students and answer their questions.

• Today (August 28), from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., CCSD is extending drop-in hours for students in Warner Hall, 1st floor. Counselors and support staff, as well as religious and spiritual leaders, will be available.

• Today (August 28) and every weekday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., CCSD is offering visiting hours for students at Warner Hall.

Student Life staff are in contact with the Newark Police Department’s Victim Services to ensure connection to community supports and UD resources for student witnesses.

For continued support:

TimelyCare — A 24/7 Virtual Health and Wellness Platform for UD Students

Student Counseling and Development Center — Offers individual and group counseling to UD students. New clients should report to Warner Hall between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays; returning clients may call 302-831-2141 to schedule an appointment.

Student Advocacy and Support — Available to assist students who need help navigating university resources or resolving complex issues. Call 302-831-8939 or email [email protected] to schedule an appointment.

ComPsych® GuidanceResources® — Mental health support for employees on DU. Access services via the link or call 877-527-4742 for assistance.

Additional Safety and Wellness Resources — Information about UD Police, Student Health Services, and other services