To the Editor:

Dear SUNY Potsdam students, faculty, staff, and friends:

The death of Elizabeth Howell is an incalculable loss for the Crane School of Music and for SUNY Potsdam. Over the past few days, I’ve heard so many members of our community share their experiences with Beth—stories about a talented cellist, a loving friend, a dedicated student, and a promising future music educator. We are each made lesser by her absence.

I speak on behalf of Crane in expressing gratitude for the outpourings of support from across campus, from the Potsdam area, and from our friends and colleagues across the country. My thoughts go out to Beth’s family and friends, as well as all those most affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.

As we begin to process our shared grief, we invite you to join Crane students, faculty, and staff in a musical gathering on Wednesday evening at 7:30 in Hosmer Hall, followed by the option to express respects at the memorial in Hosmer lobby. This will not be a traditional memorial concert, but will instead offer a chance to share in a communal moment of remembrance through contemplative music-making. Counseling staff will be on-site for those who may desire to speak with someone.

William Gibbons, Ph.D.Dean,
The Crane School of Music
SUNY Potsdam, Potsdam