Message From Chief Student Experience Officer Allen Groves

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

I am writing to share profoundly sad news about the passing of one of our graduate students, Shannon Giles. Shannon was a student in the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics pursuing a master of social work degree through the online program. She lived in Coventry, Rhode Island.

On behalf of the Orange community, Chancellor Kent Syverud, Provost Gretchen Ritter, Falk College Dean Diane Lyden Murphy and I extend heartfelt sympathies and condolences to Shannon’s husband, Mark, sons, family members and loved ones. We send thoughts of care and comfort to all those close to her during this difficult time.

In times of mourning and sadness, please know that resources are available if you need support. I encourage our community members to check in with one another, and reach out to the following resources if you need assistance:

• For students, the Barnes Center at The Arch is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for confidential counseling, by calling 315.443.8000. Students seeking ongoing support and assistance can contact the case management team in Student Outreach and Retention, Monday through Friday, at 315.443.4357.
• For faculty and staff, Carebridge, the University’s Faculty and Staff Assistance Program, provides support through trained clinicians 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling 800.437.0911.
• Hendricks Chapel is also available to provide support and services to all University community members and can be reached at 315.443.2901.

Please join me in keeping Shannon’s loved ones in your thoughts and lending support to those grieving.

Sincerely,

Allen W. Groves
Senior Vice President and Chief Student Experience Officer