WILLIAMSBURG — The William & Mary community was notified of the death of a student Saturday, according to a notice by Vice President for Student Affairs Ginger Ambler that was forwarded via email to WYDaily.
The body of junior Troy A. Cullen, of Warren, New Jersey, was found by police in the overnight hours in the woods on campus, according to the notice. No foul play is suspected and there is no danger to the community. The family has been notified.
Cullen, a History major who was also studying Chinese, was a graduate of Watchung Hills Regional High School, where he was also the first clarinetist for its award-winning marching band and a nationally rated “E” sabre fencer with the varsity fencing team.
At William & Mary, he was president of the Fencing Club, played flag football and was a member of the Smash Club.
Cullen authored a top-prize winning essay, “The Legacy of the Soviet Union in Putin’s Foreign Policy,” published in the 2021-22 issue of the Monitor, W&M’s journal of International Relations, according to the email.
Cullen’s academic adviser cited his passion for combining his interests in history and international security, and said he planned for a career in national security and public service. He noted in Cullen’s his application to the emerging technology fellows program, he wrote ‘I also hope that—however small my impact might be — the work I contribute to this project will help to make the country and the world just a little bit safer.’”
Ambler’s message stressed that the Dean of Students Office, the Counseling Center, campus ministers, and her office were all available for anyone who needed their services, and counselors could also be reached anytime by phone at 757-221-3620.
Ambler said a follow-up message about memorial arrangements would be sent once that information was available.
“Our community has endured such loss this semester. Now more than ever, may we lean on one another and find solace in our relationships,” Ambler said in the email announcement. “I encourage you to reach out for any support you may need, particularly as we head into final exams. I know you join me in extending deepest sympathies to Troy’s family and friends.”
