Story written Apr. 25, updated May 1.
Earlier today, Wilfrid Laurier University confirmed the tragic loss of Leanne Holland Brown.
Leanne, the dean of students on the Waterloo campus, passed on Wednesday evening as a result of a traffic accident.
Leanne was struck by a vehicle while walking on the sidewalk in front of MacGregor Senior Public School. She was taken to a local hospital before being transported to a hospital in Hamilton, where she is said to have later passed away.
“The university has been in close contact with Leanne’s family to offer support and to extend heartfelt sympathy on behalf of the Laurier community. Flags have been lowered to half-mast across the university in recognition of this loss. Information about a memorial service will be provided once it becomes available,” said Deborah MacLatchy in a statement earlier today.
Shocked and saddened to hear of Leanne’s passing in such a tragic way. As Dean of Students, she made a huge difference in the quality of life for WLU students. My prayers of comfort go to her family, friends, and everyone she worked with. https://t.co/xi3JYXd4D7
— Dave Jaworsky (@DaveJaworsky) April 25, 2019
“Leanne was a beloved colleague and generous friend who helped and supported many students and co-workers during her years at Laurier. She worked in Laurier’s Residence Life department from 2000-2003, served as manager of the Student Leadership Centre from 2007-2010, and was appointed dean of students for the Waterloo campus in 2010,” MacLatchy continued in the statement.
“Leanne was a loving and compassionate individual who embodied the Laurier spirit and sense of community. She enriched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her, and she will be deeply missed.”
Since Laurier announced the news, students, staff, faculty and others within the Laurier community have taken to social media to express their shock and sorrow.
Students have expressed their thanks to Leanne by sharing stories and anecdotes regarding her positive impact on their experiences at Laurier.
The Laurier community is encouraged to reach out to supports and resources if needed, such as the Student Wellness Centre and the Delton Glebe Counselling Centre.
The Cord also invites the Laurier and broader community to share their memories of Leanne on our website. Please submit your story here.
Rest In Peace Leanne Holland Brown. You were a phenomenal women that a lot of us looked up to. You will be very, very missed…
— Spotted At Laurier (@SpottedLaurier) April 25, 2019
My Leanne Holland Brown story. She helped save my university career pic.twitter.com/uliqTyloAd
— Spotted At Laurier (@SpottedLaurier) April 25, 2019
Update: The 56-year old male Cambridge driver responsible for Leanne’s passing, whose identity has not yet been released by police, has been charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death, impaired operation of a motor vehicle causing death and driving a vehicle with cannabis readily available. He is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is encouraged to contact the police or do so anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.