Colleagues,
I am sorry to inform you of the January 14 death of Sara Lynn Austin, a first-year graduate student from Sharon who was pursuing a master of education degree in literacy. A 2016 IUP education graduate, Sara was completing a student-teaching assignment in Pittsburgh at the time of her death.
A homegoing celebration was held earlier this month. Online remembrances and condolences may be shared and memorial donations made through the J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory of Sharon.
The death of someone you knew can evoke strong feelings. The best way to cope is to talk to your closest friends, family members, or trusted teachers. There are people among us who have experienced similar events, and they are often more than willing to help others going through difficult circumstances.
Students who would like to speak with a counselor may call 724-357-2621 or visit the Counseling Center in the Rhonda H. Luckey Center for Health and Well-Being, Suites on Maple East. Walk-in hours at the Counseling Center are from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Counselors are available for crisis appointments and consultation and to offer guidance and support during difficult times.
Members of IUP's Council on Spiritual and Religious Life also are available. Please call 724-357-2220 or email spiritual-life@iup.edu to have a campus minister provide support.
Sincerely,
Michael Driscoll
President