Sad News
Nov. 20, 2017
Dear Members of the Brandeis Community,
We are deeply saddened to inform you of the death of a member of our community, Brandeis International Business School graduate student Chuanchuan “Kurtis” Zhang. We offer our deepest condolences to Kurtis’ family, friends and loved ones.
As one of the IBS leadership fellows, Kurtis touched many lives at Brandeis. He was special to many, particularly students within IBS and within our Chinese community, and he was warmly regarded by faculty and staff. Kurtis was known and appreciated for reaching out to help others. He connected with many first-year students to make them feel at home at IBS, and served as a teaching assistant and tutor.
There will be a community gathering tomorrow (Nov. 21) for all who wish to come together to remember Kurtis. All are welcome to gather at 2 p.m. at Lee Hall, Lemberg Academic Center, at IBS.
In this time of grief and sadness, it is so very important for us to support each other, especially the family and friends of Kurtis. We encourage you to reach out for the support you need in whatever way is most comfortable for you. The Brandeis Counseling Center, at 781-736-3730, will be open until 8 p.m. today, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday. Over the holiday break, students may call 781-736-3785; Mandarin-speaking counselors will be available from today throughout the weekend.
You may also speak with any member of the IBS Office of Academic Affairs and Student Experience in their offices today and tomorrow, and members of our Multifaith Chaplaincy are available at 781-736-3570.
Losing a fellow student is incredibly difficult. In the days ahead, we must look out for one another, and give heartfelt compassion and support to all who need it.
Sincerely,
Ron Liebowitz
President, Brandeis University
Peter A. Petri
Interim Dean
Carl J. Shapiro Professor of International Finance at Brandeis International Business School