Passing of Missing Student Saddens Campus
The San Diego State University community woke Tuesday to news that Spanish authorities had found the body of Austin Bice, who was participating in a study abroad program in Madrid.
SDSU President Stephen Weber issued the following statement:
“The San Diego State campus is saddened by this tragic news which confirms our worst fears. Our thoughts this morning are with Austin’s family and friends who have our deepest sympathies.”
Missing since Feb. 25
Bice was was last seen by friends on Friday, Feb. 25. SDSU was notified of Bice’s disappearance by another student studying abroad on Feb. 27. Since that time, the university has been in constant contact with the host university in Madrid, as well as Bice’s family.
Bice was studying abroad as part of a semesterlong exchange program with Universidad Carlos III de Madrid. He was a senior studying international business with an emphasis in Spanish and Western Europe.
Campus vigil
On Monday night, approximately 150 students participated in a candlelight vigil on the Free Speech Steps at Aztec Center to offer support to Bice's family and friends.
Counseling and Psychological Services
Students who need help coping with this tragedy are encouraged to contact Counseling and Psychological Services at 619-594-5220 between 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. They will be able to speak with a counselor the same day. If they need assistance after hours, the Counseling Access & Crisis Line, a free 24-hour service from the County of San Diego, can be reached at 1-800-479-3339.
Update March 14, 2011
A memorial for Austin Bice has been scheduled for Sunday, March 20 at 1 p.m. at San Dieguito United Methodist Church in Encinitas. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Austin Bice Memorial Trust Fund. Visit www.austinbice.com for more information.
