Dear Bentley community,
It is with deep sadness that I write to share the news that one of our third-year students, Jonathan Barrous Dume, passed away unexpectedly off campus yesterday. The sudden loss of a member of our community can be difficult to comprehend. It defies reason. It is not fair. I grieve this morning for those who loved Jonathan dearly. And I grieve for our community, which is diminished without Jonathan and heavy-hearted at his loss.
Jonathan was exactly the type of student we hope will land at Bentley, thrive, and then head off to change the world for the better. He was well on his way. Jonathan was a finance major, a resident assistant, and an involved member of La Cultura Latina. He was a mentor and an advocate. A friend and a colleague. A proud first-generation Latino student from Lynn, Massachusetts. Jonathan’s aspiration was to make a meaningful impact on the world. Indeed, he did.
Today from 3:30 to 5 p.m., members of the Counseling Center, Residential Center and Student Affairs team will be available in the Multicultural Center Lounge in the Student Center for anyone who would like to talk or find support in connecting with others. For those who need individual support, Student Affairs staff can be reached at GA_StudentAffairs@bentley.edu. The Counseling Center staff can be reached at 781.891.2274. Spiritual Life can be reached at GA_Spiritual_life@bentley.edu or 781.891.2418. Faculty and staff can access counseling and support through our Employee Assistance Program.
Loss impacts us all in unexpected ways. There is no linear path through grief. As we navigate the days and weeks ahead, I hope you spend some extra time with your family, friends and loved ones. Take a break from work or studies to call home and say hello. Take a walk with a classmate and enjoy the crisp fall air. Stay at dinner an extra ten minutes and share a laugh with friends. These moments help us heal. These moments make us whole.
Take care of yourself and one another today and this week as we remember the meaningful impact Jonathan had on this community and world in far too short a time.
President Chrite