Kathleen Cook, the associate director of residential life, died last Thursday due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to a death certificate released by the Vermont Department of Health on Monday. ?The report by the medical examiner?s office is consistent with information developed thus far by UVM Police during our investigation,? Police Services Chief Lianne Tuomey said in a statement issued Monday night, adding that the fire was not accidental and that no other individuals were involved. Cook, a UVM alum who had worked for the University for more than 16 years, was described as a ?devoted educator, mentor, colleague and friend,? in a campus-wide letter written by President Tom Sullivan and Vice Provost for Student Affairs Annie Stevens that was sent Thursday afternoon.A Denver, Colo., native, Cook? who was better known as ?Kathy? among friends and colleagues?is also listed on the LGBTQA department?s website as a coordinator for first year experience.The Cynic reported Thursday that Cook?s death had occurred in a fire. Police Services have not yet said how the fire began. In a press conference last Thursday, a visibly emotional Tuomey thanked the professionalism of Police Services, the Burlington fire and police departments as well as the Vermont State Police. The damage was contained in Cook?s home at the University-owned 448 South Prospect St. house on the Redstone campus, she said. Police Services officers Peter Czekaj and Shawna Crump first arrived on the scene at 11:30 p.m. Wednesday night after detecting heavy smoke. Putting out the two-alarm fire required all of the city?s fire department?s on-duty members, and an additional 10-15 off-duty firefighters were called back to help, Fire Chief Seth Lasker told the Burlington Free Press on Thursday. Police crews continued to remain on the property until 2 p.m. the next day. ?Kathy touched the lives of many students, staff and faculty,? Sullivan and Steven?s letter stated. ?Her absence will be felt profoundly across the University. We extend our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to Kathy?s family, friends and colleagues.?A memorial service for Cook has been scheduled for this Wednesday at 4 p.m. at the Ira Allen Chapel.
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Update on Cook’s death
November 5, 2013
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