The Middlebury College community is mourning the loss of Lia Smith, a 21-year-old student who had been missing since October 19.
Authorities have confirmed that a body found near the Vermont campus on October 23 is that of Smith. The Vermont Chief Medical Examiner’s Office determined that she died by suicide, according to a statement from the Vermont Police Department released Friday.
A Community in Mourning
Middlebury College President Ian Baucom shared the heartbreaking news in a message to the campus community on Saturday, describing the loss as “profound.”
“As president, and far more as a fellow parent, I ache for them,” Baucom wrote. “This is a profound loss that nobody should have to endure.”
He added his gratitude to the college’s Student Affairs staff for offering compassionate support to Lia’s friends, classmates, and family during this difficult time.
“She was a remarkable person,” Baucom said. “She was a diver on our Women’s Swimming and Diving team, a member of our Chess and Japanese clubs, and an articulate advocate of transgender rights. Her academic interests were broad — she was pursuing a double major in computer science and statistics. She was a gift to us, and we are so grateful that she was — and will always remain — a member of our Middlebury family.”
Remembering Lia
Lia Smith, who was from Woodside, California, was last seen on the Middlebury campus on October 17. Two days later, her father reported her missing after being unable to reach her.
The Vermont State Police Search and Rescue Team found her body near the college’s organic farm in Cornwall, not far from campus. Students and faculty had joined the search, hoping to bring her home safely.
Senior student Lucy Schembre told NBC5 at the time that the loss has shaken the small, close-knit community:
“Even if you don’t know someone personally, you definitely know somebody who knows them, and you’ve definitely seen them around. It’s very jarring for somebody who’s supposed to be here, to not be here.”
Mental Health Resources
Lia’s death is a painful reminder of how important it is to reach out for help — and to check on the people around us.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, or suicidal thoughts, free, confidential help is available 24/7 through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org.
A Legacy of Kindness
As Middlebury students and staff gather to honor Lia’s memory, the college has encouraged the community to remember her not just for her accomplishments, but for her kindness, curiosity, and courage.
Her name will remain on campus — not just as part of the record, but as part of the family.
“She was a gift to us,” Baucom wrote. “And she always will be.”
