A Message to the Wellesley College Community

April 22, 2004

I am deeply saddened to report that the body of KateLynn Palmer, a first year student from California, was found this morning near Dower. Our prayers and our hearts go out to Katie's family and to those who knew her best. The Wellesley College community has suffered a great loss.

A police examination has shown no outward signs of foul play. Although we do not know the cause of death, we do not believe that there is any security risk to people now on campus.

We understand what a tremendous shock this is for our students and their own family members and encourage students and parents to be in touch with each other. Support for students, faculty, and employees is available throughout the campus today and in the coming days.

All members of the Wellesley College Community are invited to gather at the Houghton Memorial Chapel, at any time during the day, to reflect on this tragic loss. Dean of Religious and Spiritual Life Victor Kazanjian, members of the Student Life Division and I will be in the Chapel at 5:30 this evening for a community gathering.

Members of the Religious Life Team have been in the Chapel throughout the day for anyone who feels the need to gather as a group, for personal prayer or to talk with one of the college chaplains and religious advisors.

Members of the Counseling Staff have been in the Chapel to support community members. In addition, we have extra counselors available through Counseling Services. We will be providing as much additional support as we can today and as needed in subsequent days.

Resident Directors and others members of the Student Life staff held all-house meetings in residence halls at 12:30 today. We encourage students to gather in community for support.

Even as our hearts and minds are filled with unanswered questions, we know that at this time of tragedy we must reach out to each other in sympathy, solidarity, and support.

Diana Chapman Walsh