Message from the Office of the Dean of Undergraduates

The following message was shared with the Rice community Dec. 8.

Dear Rice community members,

It is with deep sadness that I am writing to tell you that  Claire Tracy, a second-year undergraduate student, passed away on Sunday.

Claire joined Rice in fall 2024 from Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, and was an active student. A member of Wiess College and a former member of the Rice soccer team, she was a talented athlete who had led her high school to many championships. Claire was a finance major and had close friends and a bright spirit. Our hearts go out to Claire’s family and all who knew her and are grieving her loss.  

The loss of a member of our community touches us all, and we encourage anyone who is grieving to reach out for support.  Please remember that grief affects everyone differently, and you may experience it even if you did not know Claire directly.  For our students, counselors in the Wellbeing Office and the Rice Counseling Center are available to assist anyone needing support.  During business hours, you can stop by their offices without an appointment, or you can contact them anytime (day or night) at 713-348-3311.  Staff and faculty seeking assistance are encouraged to contact Rice’s Employee Assistance Program.  Members of the Joint Campus Ministers are also a resource for those who may find comfort in their support. 

We will share information on services for Claire and memorials as those details become available in the days ahead. 

In times of great sadness, connection matters.  Please support one another and be gentle with yourself and those around you.

With sympathy, 
Bridget 

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Bridget K. Gorman
Dean of Undergraduates and Trustee Professor of Sociology