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The community at Princeton University is in mourning following a tragic event.
Lauren Blackburn, a 23-year-old undergraduate student studying English, was discovered deceased in a lake on campus on April 25, as confirmed by university officials.
Dean of Undergraduate Students Regan Crotty expressed sorrow in a press release, stating, “I am deeply saddened to share with you that the body of Lauren Blackburn ’26 was found at Lake Carnegie this morning. Our hearts are heavy, and we extend our deepest condolences to Lauren’s family and friends.”
Crotty also provided information about counseling services available for students affected by this incident, indicating that the entire campus community stands in solidarity with Blackburn’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
Details surrounding the cause of death have not been disclosed.
Prior to the discovery of her body, Blackburn had been reported missing, prompting a search effort led by the university’s Department of Public Safety, as noted by W. Rochelle Calhoun, Vice President for Student Life.
In a statement issued on April 22, Calhoun said, “It is with great concern that I write to let you know that Lauren Blackburn ’26 of New College West has been reported missing. The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is leading a search and recently issued a Tiger Alert to the campus community.”
Blackburn was last seen on the evening of April 19, near a library on campus, wearing blue jeans, a yellow t-shirt, and a black hooded sweatshirt, according to officials.
Originally from Corydon, Indiana, Blackburn graduated as valedictorian from Corydon Central High School in 2019. She received a Gates Scholarship, which financed her education at Princeton, covering her tuition and living expenses, according to local news reports from WAVE.
In a 2019 interview, Blackburn reflected on her choice of Princeton, saying, “Princeton was my favorite because of the focus they put on their undergraduates. I’m very grateful and feel very blessed. Princeton will allow me to study anything and get a world-class education in anything.”
Source
www.yahoo.com