Dear GWSPH-
It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that I inform you of the death of our colleague and friend, Don Strong, who passed away on Friday October 29, 2021. We will all miss him more than words can express. He was not just our co-worker but a dear friend who cared deeply about his colleagues, students, and the community.
Don was a devoted member of our community who was instrumental in innovating and improving the experience for students at the GW Milken Institute School of Public Health. His dedication to the pursuit of health and equity is a testament and exemplar for all others to emulate and strive to achieve. Don has consistently demonstrated responsive and innovative leadership for enhancing excellence, health equity and inclusiveness in all of his actions.
He was instrumental with the GW COVID Task Force at the start of the pandemic and his efforts to engage local and regional health departments led to over 600 faculty, staff and students volunteering with organizations during a time of crisis. Don was beloved by our community partners and met with our students to advise, counsel and mentor them through their practice experience. He was a force of nature and our hallways will not be the same without his warm presence.
We will share with you the details regarding the funeral or memorial service as we hear more details from the Strong family.
In addition, if you are in need of grief support assistance please find information below.
Faculty & Staff: Support is available through GWU’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Call toll-free: (866) 522-8509 for up to 5 sessions at no cost. Additionally, for those enrolled in GWU’s medical plans, Talkspace may be helpful during this difficult time.
Students: Support is available through GWU’s Colonial Health Center. Dial 202-994-5300 and press 2 to speak to a CAPS clinician during virtual walk-in hours of Monday – Friday, Noon to 4:00 pm ET. Crisis support is available 24/7 through this same number.
In community,
Dean Lynn Goldman, The Michael and Lori Milken Dean of Public Health