Pacific University Mourns the Loss of Recent Graduate Colin Scott ’16
The Pacific University community mourns the tragic loss of recent graduate Colin Scott ’16, who passed away on June 7 as a result of an accident at Yellowstone National Park.
Colin graduated summa cum laude on May 21 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and had been accepted into an applied social and community psychology doctoral program at Portland State University.
He was highly respected and well-liked by his classmates and professors, as well as friends and staff members throughout the university.
Professors and staff have described Colin as “a very special student” who possessed a strong work ethic, was compassionate and extremely generous.
His advisor, Professor Todd Schultz, said Colin wasn’t just an outstanding student, but equally an outstanding person. “Colin was a top student, a wonderful person and a testament to all the values that Pacific University stands for.”
While at Pacific, Colin was very active both on campus and in the greater community. He worked in the university Registrar’s Office, was a member of the university’s Psi Chi psychology honors society chapter, and was part of the Pacific University Speech & Debate Team. Colin also volunteered for the City of Hillsboro Parks and Recreation Department at Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve and for POLST, a registry for giving voice to individuals with terminal illnesses about their end-of-life decisions.
Colin won multiple awards over the past year for his collaborative research with psychology faculty in both the university’s undergraduate and graduate programs. Additionally, he worked with other students and faculty to sponsor and renovate a room at Monica’s House, a local domestic violence shelter.
His family added that he was a dedicated Christian, whose love for people stemmed from the love he felt from God.
Colin, like all members of our community, left a lasting impact on Pacific University. He will be remembered at the university’s quarterly Alumni Remembrance Ceremony on Aug. 11 at Old College Hall.
A number of resources are available to students and employees in need of support to cope with this tragedy.
Students may call the Student Counseling Center at 503-352-2191. Our university chaplain, Rev. Dr. Chuck Currie, also is available to provide support for members of the university community, regardless of their faith traditions. He can be reached at chuck.currie@pacificu.edu.
The university’s Employee Assistance Program for faculty and staff provides services through Cascade Center. Faculty and staff simply need call and indicate they are an employee of Pacific University.
Cascade Center
Toll Free: 800-433-2320
Portland: 503-639-3009
Salem: 503-588-0777
The university requests that community members keep the Scott family in their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.