To our Acadia community,

Since Sunday afternoon, we have been mourning the sudden loss of a member of our Acadia community who was tragically taken from us far too early. The support that we have received from others, and that our community has extended to one other, has been tremendous and I want to thank everyone for their kindness and compassion.

Sarah Hastings, from Cambridge, Ontario, was a first-year student in our Manning School of Business Administration. Sarah lived in Chipman House where she was surrounded by a circle of close friends and where she grew quickly to embrace everything about Acadia, both inside and outside her classrooms. A member of Acadia’s ringette and field hockey teams, she played with an intensity that was consistent with her personality: bright, funny, spontaneous and free-spirited. She was actively involved in just about every event in Chipman, often organizing and encouraging her housemates to participate.   Because of her enthusiasm and willingness to help others, Sarah was loved by everyone who knew her.

Tuesday afternoon, I met with Sarah’s parents and sister and extended our sincere sympathy to them and to their families. One of the first things they told me was how much Sarah loved Acadia and everything that is at the heart of this university.

This has been a very difficult time and I know everyone will continue to support those members of our community who were closest to Sarah and who will be feeling her loss most directly. In the meantime, a memorial for Sarah is planned for Sunday, February 8, at 2 p.m. in Acadia’s Manning Chapel and is open to all who would like to attend.

Sincerely,

Susan Mesheau
Vice-President, Enrolment and Student Services
Acadia University