Passing of a Strong, Independent, Woman Scientist

I just learned yesterday that WSU Alumnus Sam Wysocki (ENVS 2014) passed away yesterday, after an intensive battle with cancer.  Sam was just 25.  Nicole Giles and Sarah Pierce, also ENVS alumni, were able to visit Sam the day before and comfort her, and I thank them for alerting me to Sam's condition and updating me.

In our department, we have a sign on the wall that ours are Strong, Independent, Women Scientists.  Sam was one of the strongest and most independent.  She was a great field scientist and worked with the Connecticut DEEP while she was at WSU, and went on to work at an environmental consulting company.  Over the years, I spent quite a lot of time with Sam in my office, talking about her future, her plans, and her vision.  She was always very real.

On the bus this morning, I talked with the crew on the trip a while, told them a little of Sam's story, and urged them to live life to the fullest, and to live it consciously.  That's what Sam always did, and I'm truly sorry her's wasn't longer.

Our heartfelt wishes go out to Sam's family and friends, and particularly to our own Sarah Pierce, who lost her college best friend.  Sarah plans to set up a scholarship in Sam's name.

Pura Vita