Humboldt State Mourns Loss of Father Eric Freed

_The following was provided by the Humboldt State University Office of the President._ Dear Friends, Our campus and community are mourning the loss of Father Eric Freed, an instructor in the Department of Religious Studies and Pastor at St. Bernard Parish in Eureka. He was also involved with the Newman Center, which serves many HSU students.

This is a tragic and difficult loss. Through his work and commitment, Eric had a positive impact on the lives of hundreds of individuals in our area.

On campus, Eric was an instructor since 2007, teaching classes on Christianity, Living Myths and East Asian Calligraphy. He is remembered for his kindness, warmth and ability to connect with students, both as a teacher and a mentor. Eric’s colleagues say that many students in the Department were profoundly impacted by his teaching. A number of them went on to advanced work in graduate school, while others pursued work in in the Church or in social welfare organizations.

Humboldt State University President Rollin Richmond said, "On behalf of our campus, I would like to express our deepest condolences to everyone who has been affected by Eric’s death. Our thoughts are with them at this most difficult time.

"We are especially concerned for our many students and colleagues who were close to Eric, and we are here to support them in whatever way we can. Students in need of support may contact the Counseling Center on campus at 826-3236 or Student Affairs at 826-3361. Faculty and staff may contact the campus Employee Assistance Program at 443-7358."

Sincerely,

Rollin C. Richmond
President