Columbia University, New York – Tragic news has struck the Columbia University community as two General Studies students, Keith McKellar and Brandon Christie, have passed away in separate incidents. The announcement was made on Monday, September 16, 2024, by Dean Lisa Rosen-Metsch in an email to students.
Keith McKellar, a resident of Newtown, Pennsylvania, and a member of the Class of 2025, was pursuing a degree in computer science. Known for his previous experience as a software engineer at The New York Times, McKellar had also studied Creative Writing and English at the University of Pittsburgh before transferring to Columbia. Friends and colleagues described him as “hard-working, responsible, caring, and engaged,” with a deep intellectual curiosity.
Brandon Christie, another student from the School of General Studies, had a background as a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and held an associate’s degree from Orange Coast College. Enrolled in Columbia’s Mathematics-Statistics program, Christie was known for his leadership, serving as the director of community relations for Columbia’s US Military Veterans. He was also recognized for his dedication to assisting student veterans, earning the GS Student Leadership Service Award. Tragically, Christie, who was reported missing on September 9, was found dead in a wooded area near Saranac on September 15. New York State Police reported no foul play.
Several reflection spaces have been organized by Columbia University to help the community cope with this loss. The Centre for Veteran Transition and Integration (CVTI) will host a reflection event on Monday, September 16, from 1 to 4 p.m., and another will be held at Lewisohn Hall on Tuesday, September 17.
Many took to Facebook to express their condolences and share their thoughts. One Facebook user, Lailah Martins, posted, “We’ve lost two wonderful souls. Rest in peace, Keith and Brandon.” Another user, Adam Milton, commented, “These young men were bright lights in our community. We’ll miss them dearly.”
The community continues to mourn as they remember the lives and accomplishments of Keith McKellar and Brandon Christie.