Memorial gathering
 

Memorial gathering

Dear members of the Bishop’s community,

Late last week we were shaken by the tragic passing of Zoé Fortier, a first-year student in the School of Education. Zoé’s family requested that we wait until today to share her name. We understand that Zoé died of natural causes.

This Wednesday, December 14th from 11 a.m. to noon, we will hold an informal gathering in the Cleghorn room to mourn and remember Zoé. We welcome friends, professors, staff, those who knew Zoé and anyone who wishes to connect with other community members in a moment of reflection.

A book of condolences has been set up in Paterson lobby for anyone wanting to write a message that will be relayed to the family. We are also planning to hold a memorial in honour of Zoé’s life in January for those of you who are no longer on campus.

This is a very difficult time for our community and I would like to remind you of the resources available for students, faculty and staff.

 

Residence Life
The team in Paterson will have a space open today in Paterson Assembly Hall until 4:00 p.m. for reflection and grieving, with mental health support and pet support.

 

Counseling Services
Regular services will be open every day this week with drop-in appointments available every day.

Please be reminded that Indigenous students can also seek support at the Indigenous Student Support Centre (ISSC) or by emailing Shawna Jerome at schatter@ubishops.ca or Vicky Boldo at vboldo@ubishops.ca. You can also seek support from the Hope for Wellness Helpline at 1-855-242-3310.

 

24/7 Support:

  • Empower Me Health and Wellness Support: 1-833-628-5589
  • Security: Dial 711 from your Residence room phone or call 819-822-9711
  • For residents:
    • RAs: Knock on their door or call Security to reach them
    • The Spot: Use the QR code located on the back of your bedroom door

 

Employee Assistance Program
The Employee and Family Assistance Program can be reached at 1-844-880-9142 (English) or 1-844-880-9143 (French). If you would like to speak to someone about other support options please contact healthandsafety@ubishops.ca.

The University’s Chaplain Jesse Dymond can be reached at ext. 2718 or at jdymond@ubishops.ca.

 

Virtual grief support: 

  • Text 289-278-1885 or go to kemphospice.org/support-line (available 7 days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.)
  • Ligne d’ecoute (available in French): 1-888-533-3845

 

Sincerely,

Michael Goldbloom, C.M.
Principal and Vice-Chancellor