Jefferson Voelker ’28, a member of New College West from Boiceville, New York, has died while on leave from Princeton University, the University announced in a campus-wide email sent Tuesday. The message did not provide the date or cause of his death.
Voelker’s passing marks the third death of a Princeton student or postdoctoral researcher during the current academic year, and the 13th such loss reported over the past five years. These figures reflect a period of mourning and reflection within the University community, highlighting the importance of support and connection among students, faculty, and staff.
Public information about Voelker is limited, as he appears to have had little to no digital footprint online. He is, however, listed as a member of the Princeton Garden Theatre honor roll, suggesting that he engaged with the campus arts community and contributed to Princeton’s creative life. Beyond this, few details regarding his activities, academic interests, or personal pursuits have been publicly shared.
In her email to the campus community, Dean of Undergraduate Students Regan Crotty ’00 expressed condolences on behalf of the University. “We know that every member of our community joins us in sending condolences to Jefferson’s family and friends and in wishing them strength,” Crotty wrote. Her message emphasized both sympathy and the importance of collective support during such a difficult time.
To provide a space for remembrance, the University announced that an opportunity for students to reflect on Voelker’s life will be hosted Wednesday at 5 p.m. at the home of New College West Head AnneMarie Luijendijk in José E. Feliciano Hall. This gathering is intended to offer students a chance to share memories, support one another, and honor Voelker’s contributions to campus life.
Crotty also reminded students, faculty, and staff of the mental health resources available to them during this period. Students who wish to speak with a counselor are encouraged to contact Princeton Health Services at 609-258-3141, while faculty and staff may speak with licensed professionals through AllOneHealth (formerly Carebridge) at 800-451-1834. Additional information on support resources can be accessed on the University’s TigerLife website.
Students at Princeton may take leave for a variety of personal, academic, or professional reasons, including addressing health concerns, pursuing travel or volunteer opportunities, reassessing academic paths, fulfilling military requirements, or spending time with family. The University did not disclose how long Voelker had been on leave or provide further details about the circumstances surrounding his absence.
As the University community processes this loss, the focus remains on offering support, fostering connections, and remembering the individuals who have been part of Princeton’s campus life. PAW will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.
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