Dear Community,
It is with deep sadness that we share that Susan Brickell ’86, current Academic Finance Analyst in the Office of the Dean of Faculty, died unexpectedly at home on Saturday, Oct. 17. For over 33 years, Susan has been a vital member of the CC community, serving in multiple roles, including Accountant, Budget & Customer Service in Finance and Administration; Stewardship Coordinator and Program Coordinator in Development; and Occasional Staff Assistant and Gift Record Assistant in the Alumni Office.
Susan’s work and presence among us were guided by genuine kindness, dedication, and great care for CC and her colleagues. Her perceptiveness and sharp mind helped processes flow smoothly behind the scenes. The depth of her patience with our many questions and her willingness to explain the same thing to us multiple times was immense. She was gracious and generous as a colleague and friend, always extending compassion and understanding. Susan was the embodiment of institutional memory, and her gift of having perspective invited us to see a bigger picture. Nothing fazed Susan, and she always had our backs. Reliable and consistent, Susan had a grounding presence among us. She always had time to be fully present with each of us, even in her busyness. Hearing her laughter in a meeting or hallway fostered warmth and community among us. If you ever walked into her welcoming office, you might have caught a glimpse of some of her beloved plants or heard about her delight in gardening. In conversation, you might have also come to know her joy in collecting elephants, along with crocheting, sewing, and other crafting projects. And maybe if you timed it right, you got to taste her delicious holiday baking. Her greatest love, though, was spending time with her family, including her four grandchildren, whom she adored.
As a community of care, we recognize Susan’s life among us and acknowledge the sudden news of her death may come with a variety of emotions. As each of us processes Susan’s death in our own way and in our own time, please know there are multiple resources available for you. We encourage you to find ways to be gentle with yourself and each other in this time.
For those who would find it supportive to be in community during this time, you are welcome to gather today, Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 4 p.m., and/or on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 4 p.m. in Sacred Grounds, the lower part of Shove Chapel.
Additional supportive resources include:
