Message from Dean Michael Speaks

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

Earlier this week, I shared with you the sad news of the passing of David Heinrich, a member of our Syracuse University community. As we continue to mourn David’s untimely passing, I am reaching out to update you on an inaccurate piece of information I shared.

In my message, I communicated that David had passed away due to an existing illness. Not only was I wrong to share that information; the information itself was inaccurate. Though we can often take comfort in understanding why a young person’s life is tragically cut short, at this time, it is unclear what caused David’s unexpected passing.

I am very sorry to have been the bearer of the sad news and even more apologetic to have shared inaccurate information during a time of great sorrow.

I recognize that this loss is painful for all of us. As you continue to grieve, please know there are many services available to students, faculty, and staff to assist with the grieving process.

Students, please don’t hesitate to contact the Counseling Center, which provides support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To contact the Counseling Center, please call 315.443.4715. Additional services are also provided by the Office of Student Assistance, Monday through Friday, by calling 315.443.4357. For faculty and staff, assistance is available through Carebridge, the University’s Faculty and Staff Assistance Program. Trained clinicians answer the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can be reached at 800.437.0911.

For additional support and services, the campus community can contact Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.2901 or visit the chapel website for chaplaincy contact information.

Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy, but having the opportunity to do so properly can help all of us as we begin to heal. David’s family has graciously offered to live stream the memorial services, which are scheduled for tomorrow (March 17) at 4:30 p.m. EST. I encourage you to visit http://www.immanuelpalatine.org/webcasting/ so you can observe the services and reflect on David’s life and contributions to the Syracuse University community.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can be of any assistance to you during this difficult time.

Regards,

Michael Speaks

Dean, School of Architecture