Sad News

February 16, 2023

Dear all,

I am sorry to have to share some very sad news. Today, I was notified that Luca Rader, a student on leave from the Class of 2025 and from Los Angeles, California, has passed away.

The loss of a student so suddenly and unexpectedly is profoundly upsetting, and our community mourns this life cut short. We express our deep condolences to Luca’s family and friends at this time. A gathering for remembrance will be held tomorrow at Pratt House at 4:00 p.m.

Please make time to take care of yourselves and to reach out and be present with each other. If you or someone else needs support, additional resources are listed below.

Student resources:

• The Counselor on Call is available 24/7 at (845) 437-7333.
• The Counseling Service also offers walk-in hours Monday–Friday (1:00–4:00 p.m.—please call or email ahead to reserve a time) counseling@vassar.edu (845) 437-5700
• The CARE Office is available at care@vassar.edu or (845)-437-7825
• For academic assistance, please get in touch with the Dean of Studies office at (845) 437-5255
• Members of the Dean of College area, led by Deans Alamo (caalamo@vassar.edu), Speers (saspeers@vassar.edu), and Inoa (inoa@vassar.edu) are also available to meet with students who would like to connect for additional support.

Faculty, administrator, staff resources:

• Employee Assistance Program, 1-800-828-6025, https://humanresources.vassar.edu/benefits/all/eap.pdf
• Free access to counseling from Healthiest You: https://offices.vassar.edu/human-resources/benefits-and-wellness/telemedicine/
• Dutchess County Helpline: Call or text 845-485-9700
• Crisis Textline: Text HOME to 741741

Again, I am so sorry to have to share this news. Please take care, and be in touch if you need support of any kind.

Elizabeth H. Bradley, President
Vassar College
Poughkeepsie, NY 12604
@EHBVassar