Students and faculty of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine (VUSM) were informed last night about the death of classmate Zachary Scott Jones.
A graduate student and trainee in the Medical Scientist Training Program, Zach is described by his colleagues as kind, always willing to lend a hand, quick to smile, and passionate about his research career. He cared deeply for his patients, classmates, lab mates and all around him.
He grew up in Middletown, Delaware, and earned a BS in biochemistry at the University of Delaware before enrolling at Vanderbilt to pursue an MD with a PhD in molecular pathology and immunology with the goal of becoming a pediatric physician scientist in pediatric hematology/oncology, endocrinology or rheumatology. He found great joy in pursuing research and hoped he would make discoveries that would truly change lives. The School of Medicine’s leadership offers its deepest condolences to Zachary’s family, friends, loved ones and all who knew him.
“Our family lost an amazing young physician scientist today. Zachary was a brilliant, dedicated, kind and compassionate individual who left us much too soon,” said Jeff Balser, MD, PhD, President and CEO of VUMC and Dean of VUSM. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Zach and his family as well as all of his roommates, friends and colleagues. Our support for one another is always important, but never more than at a time of such tragic loss.”
For School of Medicine students there will be dedicated space for grieving today (Thursday, Sept. 16) from 1 to 4 p.m. with School of Medicine counselors. Please use this link to connect during that time.
Join Zoom Meeting https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/j/92353500969?pwd=eEs3U0ZPNUJpeWlZKzE1TUhZbG8xUT09
There are resources available to Vanderbilt students 24 hours a day. Please call the University Counseling Center (UCC) at 615-322-2571 (option No. 2 if after hours) to speak with a counselor. The UCC team is there to support you during this difficult time.
In times of distress, members of the Vanderbilt community are encouraged to draw on resources, including the Office of the University Chaplain and Religious Life, the Employee Assistance Program and the University Counseling Center, for assistance and support.
