Remembering Thomas Milligan

President Woodward shared the following message on Dec. 15.

 

Dear University of Hartford Community,

It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of Thomas (Tom) Milligan, a graduate student in The Hartt School. Last night, Tom was playing a recreational basketball game with friends on campus when he experienced a medical episode.

Tom, a doctoral student, was an accomplished euphonium player who made an enormous impact on the Hartt community. Many students knew him through his work with Hartt’s facilities operation, as he regularly opened practice rooms and assisted with room setups. Dale Merrill, dean of The Hartt School, credits Tom with helping him get settled into his role when he joined the University.

“He always had a positive attitude and a can-do spirit,” remembers Dean Merrill. “He would go above and beyond to help students with whatever they might need. He truly touched the lives of everyone in The Hartt School.”

This is a devastating loss for Tom’s family and friends—and our entire University community. We recognize many community members are no longer on campus at this time, but please reach out if you need additional support. We will do everything we can to identify resources on campus or in your region. Please call 860.768.4482 or email burda@hartford.edu to reach the Office of Counseling and Professional Services. Counselors are available to meet in person or virtually. The Office of Student Engagement and Inclusion will be open as a gathering space all day or can be reached at sei@hartford.edu. Dean of Students Aaron Isaacs is also available at aisaacs@hartford.edu.

We will share more information about memorial services when Tom's family is ready. This is an unimaginably difficult time for them, and I ask you to join me in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

Greg Woodward
President