“On behalf of the WKU family, I want to extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Laura Chaney. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. Laura will be missed at WKU,” President Gary Ransdell said.
Chaney, an 18-year-old freshman from Florence, died Monday morning (May 11) at the Medical Center after collapsing in Gilbert Hall. Although an official cause of death has not been released, preliminary reports indicate the death was from natural causes.
Chaney was a communications studies major and a member of Sigma Kappa sorority. A memorial is planned for 10 a.m. Wednesday in Downing University Center Theatre.
Brian Van Brunt, director of the Counseling and Testing Center, said staff members from the center have responded to the hall, fielded telephone calls and have talked with people who have come to the center. He said staff will continue to be available as needed. In addition, those wanting to pose questions anonymously can do so on the Here to Help website.
