RIT mourns the loss of Michael Altieri
Dear members of the RIT community,
It is with deep sadness that I share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Michael Altieri, an RIT/NTID student from Westfield, N.J. The cause of death was suicide. Michael was pursuing a degree in architectural and civil drafting technology at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf.
We ask that you keep Michael’s family, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts in the coming days as we join them in mourning this tragic loss. Our team has been in contact with Michael’s family and those close to him to offer our support. Currently, there are no funeral or memorial service arrangements available to share.
As we come together to mourn this tragic loss, I want to ensure that everyone in our community knows about the resources available to help cope with such distressing news. Students who are in need of support or wish to share their feelings of loss may reach out to the Counseling and Psychological Services staff, chaplains in Spirituality and Religious Life, and counselors in NTID Counseling & Academic Advising Services.
- Counseling and Psychological Services can be contacted via secure message on the RIT Wellness Portal or via phone at 585-475-2261. If you need to connect with mental health support services outside of business hours, call the 24-hour mental health line at 1-855-436-1245. Counselors fluent in ASL are available.
- Spirituality and Religious Life staff and chaplains can be contacted via email or by phone at 585-475-5932.
- NTID counselors/academic advisors provide counseling services to all deaf and hard-of-hearing students at RIT. Connect with the NTID Counseling & Academic Advising Services if you are seeking support.
Faculty and staff are encouraged to utilize RIT’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support services provided at no charge to eligible employees.
As we cope with this devastating news, keep in mind the importance of care for one another and for yourself. Please check in on others and reach out for support if you are struggling.
Respectfully,
Dr. Sandra (Sandy) Johnson
Senior Vice President for Student Affairs