The Middlebury College community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 21-year-old student Lia Smith, whose death has been officially confirmed. Smith, a vibrant and talented member of the campus community, was reported missing by her father on Sunday, October 19, two days after she was last seen on campus.
Vermont State Police discovered a body near the college on Thursday, October 23. An autopsy has now confirmed that the body is indeed that of Lia Smith, according to a press release issued by the Vermont Police Department (VPD) on Friday, October 24. The Vermont Chief Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Smith died by suicide, a revelation that has sent waves of grief throughout the college, the surrounding community, and beyond.
PEOPLE reached out to both the VPD and the Medical Examiner’s Office for further comment on Saturday, October 25, but no immediate responses were provided.
A Community in Shock and Mourning
Middlebury College President Ian Baucom addressed the campus community on Facebook on Saturday, expressing his heartbreak and deep concern for Smith’s family. “As president, and far more as a fellow parent, I ache for them. This is a profound loss that nobody should have to endure,” Baucom said.
He also commended the college’s staff for their compassionate response during this devastating time. “As we mourn, I want to express my deep appreciation for the efforts of our Student Affairs staff, who have been offering such compassionate support to Lia’s family, friends, and students across our community. We will continue to support them in every way possible,” he said.
Baucom highlighted the remarkable accomplishments and vibrant personality of Lia Smith, emphasizing the profound impact she had on the campus. “She was a diver on our Women’s Swimming and Diving team, a member of our Chess and Japanese clubs, and an articulate advocate for transgender rights. Her academic interests were broad, and she was pursuing a double major in computer science and statistics. She was a gift to us, and we are so grateful that she was — and will always remain — a member of our Middlebury family,” he added.
A Life of Talent, Advocacy, and Promise
Lia Smith was more than her academic and extracurricular achievements. Friends and classmates describe her as a deeply thoughtful, intelligent, and compassionate young woman. She was known for her quiet determination, her ability to light up a room with her humor, and her unwavering support for those around her. Many noted that her presence was calming and grounding, whether in the classroom, on the swimming platform, or in club meetings.
Her advocacy for transgender rights was particularly notable, inspiring fellow students and faculty alike. Smith used her voice to educate, support, and empower others, becoming a role model for those navigating challenges in their own lives. Her impact extended far beyond her immediate circle, leaving a lasting imprint on the college community.
The Search and Discovery
Members of the Vermont State Police and Rescue Team found Smith’s body in Cornwall, Vermont, near the college’s organic farm, a serene but tragic location that had become part of the extensive search effort. The Middlebury Police Department confirmed the discovery, which brought the search to a devastating conclusion.
During the days that Lia was missing, students, faculty, and community members came together, combing the campus and surrounding areas in hope of finding her safe. “We’re a really small community,” senior Lucy Schembre said during the search. “Even if you don’t know someone personally, you definitely know somebody who knows them, and you’ve definitely seen them around. It’s very jarring for somebody who’s supposed to be here, to not be here.”
A Call for Awareness and Support
The tragic passing of Lia Smith has shined a light on the critical importance of mental health awareness and support, both on college campuses and beyond. Her story underscores the struggles that many young people face behind closed doors, reminding communities to prioritize compassion, understanding, and early intervention.
For those struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, or thoughts of self-harm, resources are available. Individuals in crisis can call or text 988, or chat with trained counselors at 988lifeline.org, which operates 24/7. It is a reminder that reaching out can save lives and that no one should face such struggles alone.
The Legacy of Lia Smith
Lia’s life, though tragically cut short, leaves a profound legacy. She was not only a dedicated student but also a teammate, friend, advocate, and beacon of strength for those around her. Her intelligence, creativity, and courage made a lasting mark on Middlebury College, and her absence will be deeply felt across the campus and in the hearts of all who knew her.
The college community continues to grieve, holding vigils, offering counseling support, and coming together to honor her memory. Smith’s story is a stark reminder of both the fragility and the preciousness of life. While the pain of her loss is immense, the impact of her life, her advocacy, and her achievements will endure, inspiring others to live authentically, support one another, and cherish the moments we share.
In remembering Lia Smith, Middlebury College and the wider community pay tribute to a remarkable young woman whose light will never be forgotten. Though she is gone, her influence, her spirit, and the love she gave to those around her remain — a lasting legacy for generations to come.