Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Shooting death of Vanderbilt professor and his sister a tragedy for university and the world

The murder of Vanderbilt professor Pierre Colas a week ago shocked the university community. From the same home invasion incident, his sister died Sunday from a gunshot wound to the head.

The killings would be a tragedy for any family. But the loss of these keen minds to a world in need of enlightenment and tolerance across cultural and national barriers is staggering as well.

Pierre Colas had only been here two years. But he came with the knowledge of six languages and the field of Anthropology, particularly in linguistics. He also had the ability to thoroughly decipher hieroglyphic inscriptions of Classic Maya culture -- an ability shared by only a few people on the entire planet. Vanderbilt's Anthropology Department has geared its efforts toward Latin America.

His sister, Marie, was visiting him from Switzerland. She was in post-graduate studies. Four suspects were arrested in the murder of the brother and sister.

Vanderbilt has set up a place for people here and across the world to comment about Pierre and Marie Colas. Go to http://rememberingpierre.wordpress.com to comment or read comments left for consolation and strength.

Our condolences belong with the extended Vanderbilt family and the world over the loss of two kind and gentle people who offered the world enlightenment and good will.

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