Rice University officials announced the death of Claire Tracy, a second-year undergraduate student who passed away on Sunday.
The university announced Tracy’s passing in a letter to students and faculty on Monday.
Recommended Videos
Tracy was a student at Wiess College, one of Rice’s 11 residential colleges, and previously played on the Rice soccer team during the 2024 season, according to the team’s roster.
As a standout athlete from Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, Tracy led her high school team to multiple championships before arriving at the university. She joined Rice in fall 2024 and quickly became an active member of the campus community.
At his annual State of the University address Monday morning, Rice President Reggie DesRoches began his remarks by calling for a moment of silence in remembrance of Tracy, according to a report by The Rice Thresher, the school’s weekly student newspaper.
“She was deeply connected to many students and known for her Rice spirit,” DesRoches said.
Pursuing a degree in finance, Tracy was described as having a bright spirit and a strong friend group. Rice leaders said her loss is being deeply felt across campus.
“The loss of a member of our community touches us all,” the university wrote in the aforementioned letter announcing Tracy’s passing.
Counselors at the Wellbeing Office and the Rice Counseling Center are being made available to students without an appointment during business hours, and support is accessible at any time by calling 713-348-3311.
Rice officials said information about services and memorials for Tracy will be shared in the coming days.
“In times of great sadness, connection matters,” the message read. “Please support one another and be gentle with yourself and those around you.”