Passing of Student: Official Statement

Concordia University is deeply saddened to report that a male student was found deceased in his residence hall room early Thursday morning on our Mequon campus. Campus Safety found the deceased student, Caleb Ford around 7:30 a.m. The cause of death is currently under investigation by the Mequon Police Department. University staff are making every effort to understand the circumstances surrounding the student’s death and will continue to work closely with the police in this open investigation.

Our thoughts are with Caleb’s family and friends, the Concordia community, and all who are touched by this loss.

Concordia’s Campus Ministry, Counseling Center, Student Life, and theology faculty are working together to provide support to students and community members affected by this loss.

We will share more information as it becomes available. Media inquiries should be directed to Gretchen Jameson, Sr. Vice President for University Affairs.

To: The College CommunityFrom: Steve Smith, Campus PastorSubject: Very sad news and prayersDate: October 1, 2015

Dear Friends—

It is with great sadness that I share the news that a freshman student, Caleb Ford, died suddenly and unexpectedly early this morning on the Mequon campus in his residence hall room. We don’t know all the details and our Campus Safety staff and the rest of our Student Life staff is working faithfully to do all that is most helpful in the light of such a tragedy.

We certainly pray as a community (as we always do) for each other and pray especially for those who knew Caleb best and his family and loved ones.  This is certainly unexpected and upsetting news.

For those who would benefit from talking with someone for comfort, all our resources are in place for you: our Counseling Center in Albrecht Hall, Campus Ministry staff in Albrecht Hall, our theology professors (including myself) who are pastors and who are mostly located in the first floor of Luther Hall.  Sometimes it is also helpful just to talk with a coach or professor you already have a relationship with for guidance or perspective.  May God help us all to remind each other of the faith and hope we have in all circumstances.

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