Dear Siena Community:
It saddens me deeply to share the news that after a long and valiant battle against cancer, our colleague Vera Eccarius-Kelly, Ph.D., professor of political science and international relations, has died.
She passed away peacefully at her home in Delmar today with her family at her side.
When I remember Vera, I will think of how she always greeted you with a smile. She was always optimistic and fought so fiercely. Vera served Siena and the world-wide refugee community with exceptional dedication. She was a gifted professor and mentor, a thoughtful and dynamic scholar, and a compassionate advocate who tirelessly applied her academic work to solving real-world crises at a family and community level. She inspired her students not only to think critically and care deeply, but to act in service of others, particularly the poor and marginalized.
Whether in the Capital Region with refugee organizations, in Central America with displaced families, or with academic connections in the Middle East, she encouraged her fellow activists to pursue their goals of peace and justice with unwavering commitment.
While we grieve, we also give thanks for the countless ways Vera enriched not only the Siena community but the wider world. Her life of strong and principled compassion in advocating for those who seek political and economic refuge embodied the Franciscan values we strive to live every day. She saw what needed to be done, and then dedicated herself and inspired others to bring about real change. Her passing leaves a huge void, and we will miss her dearly.
Information about services and funeral arrangements will be shared as they become available. In the meantime, I ask you to keep Vera, her family, her students, and her colleagues in your prayers.
This has been an incredibly heavy week for our community. We gathered earlier today to mourn Coach Liam Gleason, and now we carry the loss of Vera as well. In moments like this, our Franciscan mission calls us to show up for one another with compassion, presence, and care. Vera dedicated her life to human dignity and justice, and we can honor her by supporting each other with that same spirit.
Support is available to all Saints: please don’t hesitate to reach out to Public Safety at 518-783-2999 to access any of these services or use the direct contact information below:
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Siena Counseling Center, Foy Hall 110, 518-783-2342 (on-call counselor available to students), contact Public Safety after hours
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Friar-in-Residence
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Student Life & Community Living
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Siena employees may access support 24/7 through our Employee Assistance Program by calling 888-293-6948
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If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available 24/7. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org
Let us take care of one another in this time of deep sadness and find strength in the comfort, kindness, and fellowship that define our Siena family.
Peace and all good,
Chuck