In Memoriam: HAS Student Ali Usher

The following email was sent to faculty, staff, and students on Aug. 29 by Vice President for Student Affairs Lee Peters.

Dear faculty, staff, and students,

It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Alissandra “Ali” Usher, an undergraduate in the Hartford Art School.

Ali, who was 21, passed away on Aug. 23 after a courageous battle with brain cancer.

A graduate of North Haven (Conn.) High School, Ali was majoring in ceramics at the Hartford Art School when she became ill. When she was no longer able to work with clay, she changed her major to art history and continued her studies. Ali also was an enthusiastic equestrian who took great pleasure in riding and training her horse, Sunny.

Ali was known for her ever-present sense of humor, her dedication to the development of her artistic voice, and her fierce desire to complete her degree despite her illness.

Donations in Ali’s memory may be made to All the Kings' Horses Equine Rescue, P.O. Box 88, Northford, CT 06472; or Smilow Cancer Center, Closer to Free Fund, P.O. Box 7611, New Haven, CT 06519-0611.

Please click here to read Ali’s obituary and leave online condolences.

Students who are in need of support, or who just want someone to talk to, are encouraged to contact the Office of Counseling and Psychological Services (GSU Room 313) at 860.768.4482. Support also is available through the Campus Ministry Office (GSU 153) at 860.768.4899.

On behalf of the University of Hartford, I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to Ali’s family and friends.

Sincerely,
Dr. J. Lee Peters
Vice President for Student Affairs