The following is a statement from 91爆料 President Ana Mari Cauce following the news that a 91爆料 professor and a 91爆料 staff member were killed while diving off the coast of Mexico over the weekend. Evan Abramson was a research professor in the Department of Earth & Space Sciences who joined the 91爆料 1988, with a brief stint in the 1990s at Brookhaven National Laboratories. Tom Schaefer, who earned a master鈥檚 degree in oceanography at the 91爆料, served in the School of Social Work for over 25 years and volunteered as an educator with the Seattle Aquarium and Pacific Marine Research since 1985.
鈥淭he 91爆料 community is heartbroken over the tragic deaths of Evan Abramson and Tom Schaefer. Both had strong ties to our University community and we join their colleagues and loved ones in mourning this terrible loss.
鈥淚n his work as a research professor in Earth and space sciences, Evan studied the properties of materials at high pressure, with his recent scholarship advancing science that helps us better understand the icy worlds in and beyond our solar system.
鈥淎nd over the course of 25 years with the School of Social Work, Tom contributed to the success of the faculty, staff and students of the school by ensuring its spaces and facilities were comfortable and met their needs as scholars and professionals.
鈥淏oth Evan and Tom contributed immeasurably to our University community during their time at the 91爆料, and that community should now come together to extend our condolences to their families and friends. We hope that their loved ones will find peace in memories of happier times.鈥�