Dear members of the Temple University community, 

We are deeply saddened to share the news that four of our international exchange students were involved in a car accident early this morning in upstate New York and that tragically, two suffered fatal injuries. We mourn the loss of our Temple family members, Francesca Ward and Olivia Moore.

Francesca and Olivia were nearing completion of a year-long international exchange. Francesca came to Temple from the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom; Olivia joined us from the University of East Anglia, also in the United Kingdom. Both students made the most of their international experience and enriched Temple through their time here. 

We are in shock and mourning over this terrible tragedy and have reached out to the families of all four students. The university extends our deepest condolences to Francesa’s and Olivia’s families, friends, faculty, and classmates. We know that, as a community, we will support those impacted by their loss during this difficult time. We also recognize the two other exchange students who survived this incident and whose identities we are not releasing publicly to maintain as much privacy for them as we can. They will undoubtedly need everyone's support as they make their way beyond this unspeakable tragedy. Please keep them in your thoughts.

This incident affects all of us, and we want to remind you that support is always available through Tuttleman Counseling Services. To speak with a counselor this weekend, please call 215-204-7276 and press 1 when prompted. If you would prefer in-person service, Tuttleman Counseling Services offers walk-in appointments. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., located at 1700 North Broad Street, 2nd floor.

Remember that we can always find strength in each other and the Temple community. Please be safe and continue to be kind to yourselves and the rest of the community, especially during this time of loss.

Sincerely,

JoAnne A. Epps
Acting President 

Stephanie B. Ives
Interim Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students

Emilia Zankina
Interim Vice Provost for Global Engagement 
Dean, Temple Rome