Dear UVM community,

It is with a heavy heart that I write to share with you that Matthew Foster, a senior majoring in Ecological Agriculture in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, passed away Wednesday while visiting family in Honolulu, Hawaii. Though the exact cause of death is still unknown, initial information from his family suggests it may have been an accidental drowning, or a medical issue that occurred while he was swimming.

Matthew was about to begin his senior year at UVM, and he was excited to complete his degree with the hope of going on to a graduate program in his field. During his active time at UVM, he was involved in the Running Club as well as the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. My deepest condolences go out to those who knew Matthew, especially his family, friends, classmates, faculty, and staff who are grieving.

The loss of any member of our community is always extremely difficult. Experiences of grief and loss feel different to each of us and usually include a range of emotions. The most important thing that you can do is acknowledge your own feelings and emotions and support others in doing the same. Most of us can get the support and connection we need through talking with our close friends, family members, and others in our support systems. Many of us may need to reach out for additional help.

If you, or someone you know, are in need of professional counseling please do not hesitate to contact UVM’s Counseling and Psychiatry Services at (802) 656-3340 (for students) or Invest EAP at (802) 864-EAPØ (3270) or toll free at 1-866-660-9533 (for employee assistance).

Sincerely,

Erica
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Erica Caloiero
Interim Vice Provost for Student Affairs