Middlebury, Vermont — The Middlebury College community is mourning the loss of Lia Smith, a 21-year-old transgender student, after Vermont State Police confirmed she was found dead days after being reported missing.
Smith, who was studying computer science and statistics at the prestigious liberal arts college, was known across campus as an intelligent, compassionate, and outspoken advocate for transgender rights.
From Missing to Tragic Discovery
According to Middlebury College officials, Lia Smith was last seen on October 17 at approximately 9:00 p.m. on the college’s campus. Her father reported her missing on October 19, prompting a widespread search effort coordinated between the Vermont State Police, Middlebury College Department of Public Safety, and student volunteers.
Search teams utilized aerial drones and conducted extensive ground sweeps across the college’s property and surrounding areas. Student organizations and volunteers joined the effort, setting up search groups near The Knoll, Middlebury’s organic farm and popular student gathering site.
On October 23, the Vermont State Police Search and Rescue Team located a body near the town of Cornwall, approximately two miles from the college campus. The Vermont Chief Medical Examiner’s Office has since identified the body as that of Lia Smith. The cause of death was determined to be suicide, and authorities confirmed there was no suspicion of foul play.
College President and Community Respond
In an emotional statement to the college community, Middlebury President Ian Baucom expressed his grief and condolences:
“With deep sorrow, I write to share that in a press release issued last night, the Vermont State Police have now confirmed the identity of the person found near campus on Thursday as Lia Smith. They continue to confirm there is no suspicion of foul play.
I have spoken with Lia’s family to express my heartbreak. As president, and far more as a fellow parent, I ache for them. This is a profound loss that nobody should have to endure.”
Baucom added that Middlebury will organize memorial events to honor Lia’s life and provide support for grieving students, faculty, and staff. Counseling and mental health services have been made available through the college’s Center for Health and Wellness.
A Dedicated Student, Athlete, and Advocate
Lia Smith was a double major in computer science and statistics, a challenging academic path that reflected her analytical talent and curiosity. She was a former diver on Middlebury’s women’s swimming and diving team and an active member of the college chess club.
Peers describe her as “brilliant, thoughtful, and always ready to help others understand complex ideas — whether in the classroom or in conversations about identity and justice.”
Smith’s advocacy for transgender rights made a lasting impression on the campus community. Earlier this year, she participated in a student-led panel titled “Trans Healthcare is NOT a Debate!”, organized in response to a controversial event on campus that featured speakers questioning transgender medical care.
During the panel, Smith spoke directly to her peers and younger students, saying:
“Know that there are people in your community who are here for you and care about you.”
Her words, students said, captured her deep empathy and belief in creating safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone.
A Campus in Mourning
The news of Smith’s death has shaken the tight-knit Middlebury community, prompting an outpouring of tributes on social media and student forums. Many posts describe her as “a light,” “a fighter,” and “a friend who made everyone feel seen.”
Faculty members in the computer science and statistics departments have released a joint statement remembering Lia’s “exceptional intellect and kindness,” adding, “She approached her studies with curiosity and compassion — qualities that made her an invaluable member of our classrooms and community.”
The Middlebury Queer Studies House and Trans Affinity Group are planning vigils and remembrance events later this week.
Broader Reflections on Mental Health and Trans Safety
Smith’s death has also reignited conversations about mental health resources and the unique challenges faced by transgender and nonbinary students nationwide.
Transgender individuals are statistically at a higher risk for depression and suicide due to discrimination, isolation, and lack of access to affirming care. According to the Trevor Project’s 2023 National Survey, 41% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, with rates even higher among transgender respondents.
Mental health professionals emphasize that community support and visibility are essential. “Every trans student deserves to feel safe, affirmed, and valued,” said one Middlebury counselor who asked not to be named. “Lia’s advocacy reminds us of that truth.”
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Free and confidential resources are available 24/7:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org
- Trans Lifeline — Call (877) 565-8860 for peer support run by and for trans people
- The Trevor Project — Call (866) 488-7386, text START to 678678, or chat via TheTrevorProject.org/Help
Remembering Lia Smith
As the college prepares to honor her life, friends and classmates say Lia Smith’s legacy will live on — in her academic achievements, her advocacy for transgender rights, and the compassion she brought to every conversation.
“She changed the way people saw one another,” said a fellow student who worked with her on campus initiatives. “That’s how we’ll remember her — as someone who made Middlebury kinder.”
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