On Thursday, March 30th, 2023, the Columbia College community was shocked and saddened by the news of the death of McLeod Buckham-White, a senior student and a member of the football team. According to Bwog, McLeod Buckham-White passed away due to suicide at the Wien Residence Hall in New York, New York.
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Who was McLeod Buckham-White?
McLeod Buckham-White was originally from Atlanta, Georgia, and joined Columbia College in the fall of 2019. He double majored in economics and psychology, and was involved in the Columbia Athletics community as a member of the football team. He was described by his coach as an “excellent teammate, respected by all for his hard work, drive and effort” . He was also remembered by his peers for his sincerity and kindness.
How did McLeod Buckham-White die?
The exact details of McLeod Buckham-White’s death are not publicly known, but according to Atinkanews, he died by suicide on March 30th, 2023. The tragic event happened at the Wien Residence Hall, which is located at 411 West 116th Street in New York, New York. The residence hall is one of the dormitories for Columbia College students, and has a capacity of 420 residents .
How did Columbia College react to McLeod Buckham-White’s death?
The news of McLeod Buckham-White’s death was announced by Josef Sorett, Dean of Columbia College, in an email to the Columbia community on Friday morning, March 31st, 2023. Dean Sorett expressed his deep sorrow and sympathy for the loss of McLeod Buckham-White, and invited the students to share their personal messages of condolence with his family and friends on a dedicated page . He also provided links to resources that are available to Columbia students in times of need, such as counseling and psychological services, chaplains, advisers, and peer support groups .
In addition to the email, support was also provided in person at Lerner 555 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, March 31st, 2023. Additional memorial plans were determined with McLeod Buckham-White’s family, with the care and support of the Columbia community .
What can we learn from McLeod Buckham-White’s death?
McLeod Buckham-White’s death is a tragic reminder of the importance of mental health and well-being, especially for college students who face academic pressure, social stress, and personal challenges. According to the American College Health Association , suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students in the United States, and about one in five students have had suicidal thoughts in their lifetime.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or feelings, please do not hesitate to reach out for help. You are not alone, and there are people who care about you and want to support you. Here are some resources that you can contact:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Columbia Counseling and Psychological Services: (212) 854-2878
- Columbia Nightline: (212) 854-7777
McLeod Buckham-White was a valued member of the Columbia College community, and his death is a devastating loss for everyone who knew him. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends, and hope that they find comfort and peace in this difficult time. Rest in peace, McLeod Buckham-White. You will be missed.
