Kat Sommers

Dear Brandeis,

I am sure you, like myself, were deeply saddened to receive the news of Kat Sommers’ death tonight. I send my sincerest condolences to her friends and family.

As someone with a family history of suicide and self-injury, I believe suicide should be discussed. Depression is a serious condition, and I urge everyone to reach out towards one another when school and life becomes overwhelming.
If you would prefer a confidential conversation, call x6TALK between 10 pm and 2 am seven days a week to speak with a trained counselor for support, information, crisis relief or resources.

I know it is cliché, but simple things like a smile or texting a friend can help brighten someone’s day. I have always been proud of the support and kindness of the Brandeis community. I know we will continue to encourage and care through this difficult time.

Below is Rick Sawyer’s letter to Brandeis:

To the Brandeis community,

I am saddened to report that an undergraduate student, Katherine M. “Kat” Sommers ’14, of Queens, N.Y., apparently took her life on campus tonight. I spoke with her family tonight and expressed profound sympathy on behalf of the entire Brandeis community.

Staff from Community Living, the Psychological Counseling Center and the Chaplaincy are reaching out tonight to Kat’s friends and members of her residence community and will continue to do so tomorrow.

Fr. Walter Cuenin will be available to meet with students at 10 a.m. tomorrow at the Shapiro Campus Center art gallery on the third floor. In addition, the Counseling Center will hold a group session tomorrow at 8:45 p.m. at Mailman House. If you would like to talk about this tragic event, or if you are feeling stressed, please call my office at 781-736-3600. If there is an urgent need, please call Public Safety at 781-736-5000. We will make arrangements for a community memorial service to be held after break.

Please take care of yourselves, and each other.

Rick Sawyer
Dean of Student Life