University Statements

It is with deep sadness that I write to share the news that Rachel Doran ’19 passed away following a severe illness, which she battled courageously after her diagnosis in mid-July. She died peacefully Friday night, with her family by her side.

A rising senior in the College of Human Ecology who majored in fashion design management with a minor in business, Rachel was a dedicated and passionate student. She worked as a research assistant in the Cornell Costume and Textile Collection and curated the exhibition “Go Figure: The Fashion Silhouette & the Female Form,” which was displayed in the Human Ecology Building November 2017–July 2018. The Department of Fiber Science and Apparel Design recently honored Rachel as an outstanding student, and she received the Charlotte A. Jirousek Undergraduate Research Fellowship in 2017. Rachel was the vice president of public relations for Pi Sigma Epsilon, a member of the Cornell Fashion Industry Network, and was working as a swimwear production intern at Li & Fung Limited in New York City.

The College of Human Ecology will be holding a gathering for those seeking support on Monday, Aug. 20, at 4:30 p.m. in Room T01 of the Human Ecology Building.

On behalf of the entire Cornell community, I extend our deepest condolences to Rachel’s family and friends as they grieve her passing. May we all find strength in our community in the coming days.

Sincerely,

Ryan Lombardi
Vice President for Student & Campus Life