13 CommentsThis morning, Dean Harford emailed GS students with news of Matthew Serpa’s death. Bwog sends its deepest condolences to all those affected.
We remind you of the relevant on campus services in light of this saddening news: Counseling and Psychological Services, Furman counseling, the Office of the University Chaplain, and Nightline Peer Listening are all available for support.
Here is the email that was sent to GS students:
Dear Students,
It is with great sadness that I must share with you the news of the passing of GS student Matthew Serpa who first enrolled last semester and was studying history and political science. Born in Arlington, Virginia, Matthew served in the U.S. Army for four years and deployed to Afghanistan prior to attending Columbia University. I know that all of you join me in sending our deepest condolences to Matthew’s family and friends.
Whenever we lose someone within the Columbia community, we are all affected by it, whether or not we know the person well. Such a loss can bring about feelings of grief and may bring back memories of other painful losses. Please know that your academic advisor, the staff at Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS), and members of the Office of the University Chaplain are all available to provide you with any additional support you might need at this time. We have listed their contact information for you below.
With sympathy,
Tom Harford
Dean of Students
School of General Studies
Columbia University
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Counseling and Psychological Services
8th Floor Lerner Hall
212-854-2878Office of the University Chaplain
212-854-1493GS Office of the Dean of Students
212-854-2881
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13 Comments
@M RIP Matt, it was an honor and privilege serving with you. Wish you had reached out when you were hurting, we could have made it through. For those left behind – http://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
@GS Vet Though I did not know Matt, it is always said when a fellow veteran passes away. I hope that his family and friends can find peace. This is a sad day for the veteran and Columbia communities.
@Anonymous Rest in peace Matt. Although we weren’t very close, you were very kind to me and always generous. It hurts to see you go. I don’t even know what to think right now. We are indebted to you for serving our country, and we will not forget you.
@Anonymous Was this suicide?
@Anonymous I think he was ill.
@Anonymous That’s not really an answer.
@Anonymous I’m not sure why you merit one.
@Anonymous why wasn’t this sent to all undergrad students? Deaths of individuals in our learning community, especially one as integrated as our 4 undergrad schools are, affect everyone.
@Correction 3 undergrad schools and an affiliated college.
@Anonymous I got it, and I’m CC
@stickler Only liking this for accuracy, but I detest the implied snark behind it.
@anon Lord help us all.
@anon :(