Campus & Community

Message from Dean of Students Marianne Thomson

Wednesday, December 23, 2020, By News Staff

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

It is with great sadness I write today to share news of the passing of a member of our Syracuse University community. Yesterday, Laura Rodriguez, a senior in the College of Arts and Sciences, died in a tragic accident in her hometown of Houston, Texas, where she spent the fall semester studying remotely.

The first in her family to attend college, Laura was an outstanding student pursuing a degree in psychology. Laura began her career at SU in the fall of 2019 as a member of the Syracuse University Abroad Discovery Program in Madrid.

Together with Chancellor Kent Syverud, and on behalf of our entire Syracuse University family, we extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to Laura’s family, friends and loved ones. We hold all of those who knew and loved Laura close to our hearts as they mourn this loss.

With so much loss and grief this year, we recognize how difficult it is to receive the news of the untimely passing of a member of our community. Please know that there are resources and services available to our community during these challenging times.

  • Students: The Barnes Center at The Arch is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for students seeking confidential counseling support. They can be reached at 315.443.8000. The Dean of Students Office is available for students seeking ongoing support by emailing dos@syr.edu during winter break.
  • Faculty and Staff: Assistance is available through Carebridge, the University’s Faculty and Staff Assistance Program, by calling 800.437.0911. Trained clinicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
  • Students, Faculty and Staff: For additional support and services, campus community members may contact Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.2901 or by email at chapel@syr.edu.

With the final days of 2020 upon us, please continue to take care of yourselves and each other. And please do not hesitate to make use of the resources available to you. Together, we can support one another to get through these most difficult times.

In sorrow,

Marianne Thomson
Associate Vice President and Dean of Students
Division of Enrollment and the Student Experience