Dear Vanderbilt Students,

I am writing to make you aware that one of our students, Zachary Scott Jones, has tragically passed away. We offer our deepest condolences to Zach’s friends, loved ones and all who knew him.

A graduate student and trainee in the Medical Scientist Training Program, Zach’s colleagues say he was kind, always willing to lend a hand, quick to smile, and passionate about his research career. He grew up in Middletown, Delaware, and earned a B.S. in biochemistry at the University of Delaware before enrolling at Vanderbilt to pursue an MD with a Ph.D. in immunology with the goal of becoming a pediatric physician scientist in either pediatric hematology/oncology or rheumatology.

This is a devastating loss for our community. Please know that support services are available to help you during this difficult time. We urge grieving students seeking assistance to reach out to our campus support services:

• Call the University Counseling Center at 615-322-2571 to speak with an on-call mental health provider.
• Call or schedule an appointment online with Student Care Coordination, 615-343-WELL (9355).
• Call the Center for Student Wellbeing at 615-322-0480 to schedule an appointment.
• Call the Office of the University Chaplain and Religious Life at 615-322-2457 for support or for the university’s Griefnet

Please know that we are here to assist you in any way possible.

Sincerely,

G.L. Black
Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students