Two families lost a dearly beloved member this week--the family and friends of Rebecca Griego, and our University family, of which Rebecca was a cherished member. Much attention has been focused on the terrible event that occurred earlier this week in an effort to understand what happened. It is important to do so, but it is also important not to lose sight of Rebecca and the gifts she brought to all who knew her.
Rebecca's family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to everyone who loved and supported her and to everyone who has supported them during this very difficult time. "Rebecca was an amazing woman whose grace, elegance, strength and compassion will be greatly missed," said the family. "We wish for her to be remembered for the person she was, not for the tragedy that took her from us. However, this tragedy has brought to everyone's attention the struggle too many in our community face. We fervently hope that others in similar situations can find the help they need to protect themselves, and that Rebecca's story can be a catalyst for positive action."
Rebecca was a graduate of the University of Washington, a talented and dedicated member of our staff of the Runstad Center for Real Estate Studies, and a mentor and friend to many. She was deeply committed to students and worked hard to mentor and nurture them. She developed learning materials and prepared tutorials for them, always working to enhance their learning experience. Her contributions to the research program in the Center were sophisticated and reflected the rigorous standards she set for herself. She was the glue that held so many aspects of the Center's programs together, the epicenter of much of the activity that has made the Center a true academic home for its students.
"Though I did not have the privilege of knowing Rebecca," said UW President Mark Emmert, "the picture that emerges of her is of a brilliant, energetic, vital force helping our students accomplish their educational objectives. She was an exemplar of the best we can offer in guidance and assistance as our students navigate their way towards their careers. Her loss is deeply felt by all who knew her and all whose lives she touched and improved. It is a great loss for the University community, and we are partners in grief with her family."
To honor Rebecca, an endowed scholarship fund is being established in her memory. Contributions to the fund may be directed to the Development Office, College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Box 355726, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195. A memorial service is being planned by the College of Architecture and Urban Planning. Details will be available from its web site once they are finalized.
Domestic violence affects all of us. The UW community has resources in place to help. The UW Women's Center's Violence Prevention Program provides a wealth of services, including educational programs, self-defense classes, workshops, information and referral, and the Violence Prevention Resource Center, located in a safe and quiet place. The Center can be reached by calling 206-685-1090.
Other campus resources include the Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence Information Service (SARIS), a free, confidential starting point for students seeking information about sexual assault and relationship violence. SARIS can be contacted via telephone at 206-685-HELP or via email at saris@u.washington.edu. Faculty and staff may contact CARELINK for immediate phone assistance or to schedule an individual appointment at 866-598-3978. The University's Counseling Center is available to students; appointments can be scheduled by calling 206-543-1240 or by stopping by the Center at 401 Schmitz Hall.
