Special Campus Memo: Condolences

Dear Grinnellians:

It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death on Friday, March 30, of one of our students, Jacob "Jack" Gustafson, a junior psychology major from Madison, Wisconsin. Jack was on an off-campus study program in Freiberg, Germany. He passed away in the hospital; please be assured there is no danger to our community or our students overseas. Jack was a giving member of our community, and his loss will be deeply felt. He served Grinnell as a CA and represented our college in athletics, and his kind and caring nature embodied the spirit of our Grinnell.

I offer my sincere condolences to Jack's family and friends and to all Grinnellians. We have spoken to Jack's parents and extended sympathies and support on behalf of the College. I ask that our community keep Jack, his family, and friends in our thoughts.

A community gathering to support each other is scheduled for 8 to 10 p.m., Monday, April 2 in JRC 101. I hope you can join us. Additional details about on-campus and off-campus memorial services will be shared at a future time.

This news is difficult to share and to hear. Grinnell is a close-knit campus and a variety of services are available to help.

Over the weekend, the following resources are available:

• Phone counselors are available by calling the Student Health and Counseling Services phone number (641-269-3230) and following the prompts to be connected with Protocall
• The on-call RLC can be reached by contacting Campus Safety (641-269-4600)

Beginning Monday morning at 8 a.m., the following resources are available:

• Student Health and Counseling Services (641-269-3230), Forum Lower Level
• Chaplain's Office (641-269-4981), 913 8th Avenue
• Residence Life Coordinators, in your halls
• Academic Advising (641-269-3702), JRC 3rd floor

I remind you that self-care, including sufficient rest and nourishment, are extremely important during times of stress or grief. I also encourage all Grinnellians to be in touch with your loved ones at this time; they can be of great support.

We will continue to be in contact with Jack's family in the coming days to offer our support and ensure that our responses are respectful of their needs.

Sincerely,
 
Raynard S. Kington
President