In memoriam: Ella Friedman, student, College of Engineering

Ella Friedman passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, Oct. 30.

Friedman was in her third semester at Virginia Tech and was in the College of Engineering. She was also a student leader in the Hypatia living-learning community in Pritchard Hall. As a student leader, she was deeply committed in supporting her fellow students by being committed to their well-being and successes.

A Celebration of Life for Friedman will be held at Oakdale Church on Thursday, Nov. 7, at noon in Olney, Maryland. Donations in her name can be made to Marine Megafauna Foundation as recently, Friedman — a lover of all animals — adopted and was tracking a whale shark.

The Friedman family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and wants to thank the Virginia Tech community for the kindness and compassion during this difficult time.

Virginia Tech realizes that the death of a friend, teammate, or student is difficult, and we are here to offer our support.

Members of the university community who seek support or assistance are encouraged to contact these resources:

• TimelyCare
  
• Cook Counseling Center at 540-231-6557
• Dean of Students Office at 540-231-3787. Referral to a campus cleric may be made through this office.
• Employee Assistance Program
  • Anthem at 855-223-9277
  • Aetna at 888-238-6232
  • Kaiser Permanente at 866-517-7042
  • Sentara Health Plans Vantage HMO at 800-899-8174
• Hokie Wellness at 540-231-2233 (students) or 540-231-8878 (employees)
• Housing Services at 540-231-6205
• Residential Well-being at 540-231-1139
• Equity and Accessibility at  540-231-2010
• Women's Center at Virginia Tech at 540-231-7806
  
• University Ombuds Office at 540-231-3125
• Graduate Office of the Ombudsperson at 540-231-9573