CW: Student death
A Harvey Mudd College student died off campus this week, according to an email from HMC President Harriet B. Nembhard. The student identified in the email, Arjun Vattipali HM ’27, was described as an “outstanding member of the community [who will be] missed tremendously.”
At the time of the email, the cause of death is unknown.
“We have been in contact with Arjun’s family, roommates and close friends and have expressed our sincere condolences and offered our support,” Nembhard wrote. “I know that each of you joins me in mourning Arjun’s loss.”
Vattipalli was originally from Aurora, Colorado. He spent this past summer working as an intern at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Hansen Lab. At HMC, Vattipali was pursuing a degree in biochemistry and he also held two EMT certifications.
Nembhard wrote that, as appropriate, there will be additional information released regarding a memorial while the college is in contact with Vattipali’s family.
“In the meantime, I ask that you respect his family’s privacy during this incredibly difficult time and that you join me in keeping his family and friends in your thoughts,” she wrote.
Nembhard encouraged students struggling to reach out to available resources on campus.
“We know this loss will be felt throughout our campus, and we want to remind you that support is available for anyone who may be struggling,” the email read.
For students across the Claremont Colleges, Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services is located in the Tranquada Student Services Center, while an on-call therapist is reachable 24/7 for after-hours support at 909-621-8202. Other resources are available through The Chaplain’s Office, along with staff and faculty on campus.