Irish student dies after kayaking accident in US

An Irish student has died following a kayaking accident in Washington while on a university outing there.

Dublin student Ella Mills was on the Potomac River in Maryland while on a trip with the Columbia University Whitewater Kayaking Club when it is reported she became submerged in the water on Sunday.

She was a student of at Columbia University’s School of General Studies.

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik said: "Words cannot express how heartbroken I feel for her family, her friends, her loved ones, and those students from the University who were with her on this trip.

"On behalf of the entire University, I extend my deepest condolences".

Lisa Rosen-Metsch, Dean and Professor with the university said she was heartbroken to inform students of the loss of a member of their Columbia GS community, Ella Mills.
 
She outlined that originally from Dublin, Ella was just beginning her journey at Columbia University as a third-year student in their Dual BA Program with Trinity College Dublin. She arrived in New York earlier this month to begin her studies at Columbia, having completed her English Studies coursework in Dublin.

"Ella had a love for learning, was intellectually curious, and passionate about literature—eager to soak in new ways of looking at literature and viewing the world as a literary scholar. She was an active member of the Trinity College Dublin community as part of the Trinity College Dublin drama society, the DU Players, the Trinity College Dublin Tennis Club, and the Philosophical Society, among many others. She is survived by her loving parents, brother, and sister. Our thoughts and compassion are with them at this very difficult time," Ms Rosen-Metsch said.
 
She confirmed that they would be hosting a community reflection for all students and members of our community who wish to attend.

Members of the GS Wellbeing Team and Columbia Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS) were due to be present to provide support as needed. The GS Wellbeing team was also made available for walk-in appointments.
 
"To our GS community - we are grieving with you and holding Ella and her family and friends in our thoughts and hearts. Our entire staff at Columbia GS, as well as our colleagues throughout the campus, are available to offer continued support to you," Ms Rosen-Metsch said.