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In a message to the University community, Dean of Students Ophelie Rowe-Allen announced that Raymond Rolle ’22 died on April 9 following a motor vehicle accident in New Haven.

April 9, 2022

Dear Members of the University Community,

I am writing with a very heavy heart to inform you of the passing of Raymond Rolle, a computer engineering major in our Class of 2022 and an active member of the University’s TEDx Club. A native of the Bahamas, he died earlier this morning in a motor vehicle accident in the New Haven area. Also involved in the motor vehicle accident was Kenu Adderley ’20, ’21 M.S. He is currently hospitalized.

Raymond’s adviser Christopher Martinez, associate professor of computer engineering, said Raymond was great to have in class and that he was passionate about his studies.

“This is going to be very hard for his professors and classmates,” he said. “He was so kindhearted, and he got along with everyone. This semester, he was taking his junior design experience course. He worked so well with his classmates, and he was regularly in the lab on weekends working on his project. He put in a lot of hard work. The last time I saw him, he was talking about applying for internships and grad school. He had a great deal of potential.”

“I am heartbroken for Raymond’s parents, his family, friends, and professors,” added President Steven H. Kaplan. “The death of someone so young with so much potential is a horrific tragedy and an unspeakable loss. As an international student, he showed great dedication in coming to the United States to pursue his most lofty goals and aspirations. I hope that Raymond’s loved ones are able to find some comfort in the memories they have of him. On behalf of our entire University community, I also extend our thoughts and prayers to Kenu and his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Grief counseling is available through the University’s Counseling and Psychological Services Office. Students can call to make appointments or seek support by calling 203-932-7333. (An on-call clinician is available through the weekend). The Dean of Students office is also available to students at 203-932-7176 this weekend or by email at DeanOfStudents@newhaven.edu. Faculty and staff members can for available support.

We will share details on arrangements for celebrating the life of Raymond when they are finalized by his family. Details will be shared soon for an on-campus memorial.

Please join me in extending our heartfelt condolences to Raymond’s parents, his family, friends, and classmates.

Sincerely,

Ophelie Rowe-Allen, Ed.D.
Dean of Students