Dear º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½ Faculty, Staff, and Students,
I am deeply saddened to report that Carolina Castilla, Richard M. Kessler Professor of Economic Studies, passed away on Saturday, April 12, at the age of 47 following a short battle with an aggressive cancer. Carolina was a spark of light: vibrant and dynamic, her sudden passing comes as a shock to those who knew her.
In time, there will be a more expansive tribute to Carolina. For now, however, we are all processing this profound loss and mourning for — and with — her husband, Ben Anderson, senior lecturer in economics, their families, and friends.
For faculty and staff seeking support, offers free, short-term, confidential counseling to º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½ employees and immediate family members. Zoom, phone, or in-person appointments can be made through or by calling 315-697-3947.
º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½â€™s chaplains are also available to support anyone in the º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½ community, regardless of religious affiliation or belief. The Office of the Chaplains is located on the ground floor of the º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½ Memorial Chapel.
Students, please know that there are several professional staff members with whom you can talk about grief and loss. Counselors are available in Counseling and Psychological Services (walk-in hours are available Monday through Friday in Conant House, and after-hours counseling is available by calling their office at 315-228-7385). Your administrative dean can also be a helpful resource if you need advice or counsel about how to manage academic commitments during this time.
In the course of my many and diverse interactions with Carolina, I was consistently struck by her compassion and deep empathy. I know it would be her hope that we find comfort and support in one another at this moment of loss.
May her memory be a blessing.
Lesleigh
Lesleigh R. Cushing
Provost and Dean of the Faculty
Mark S. Siegel University Professor in Religion and Jewish Studies