Ithaca College

Submitted on behalf of President Peggy R. Williams.

I deeply regret that I must inform the campus community of the tragic loss of one of our students. This morning searchers found the body of freshman student William Jacobson in the Farm Road Pond on campus.

The Ithaca Police Department and other agencies continue to investigate this incident, and more information from them will be forthcoming.

These have been difficult days for the family, the students, and all of the Ithaca College community. We all grieve the loss of this bright young man -- an incredibly talented student with many close friends and so much potential. The loss of a student who had so much to contribute becomes a loss, not just for the campus community but for all who knew him.

The college will continue to provide support to all those who have been touched by Willie's untimely passing. A vigil will be held Wednesday evening at 8:00 p.m. at Muller Chapel. Counselors and chaplains are available to meet and speak with students and other members of the campus community having difficulty dealing with this loss.

We thank the students, the campus, and the entire community for their tireless efforts over these last two days.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and all who have been touched by this tragic event.

Although I did not know Willie personally, I feel as though I have lost a son.

Peggy R. Williams