The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) community is in mourning following the tragic loss of Jay Hayes, a senior Biomedical Engineering student and former wide receiver at Londonderry High School. Jay, who was deeply integrated into the academic and extracurricular life at RPI, tragically died by suicide, as reported by RPI News.
Jay Hayes graduated from Londonderry High School in New Hampshire as part of the class of 2020 and had since made significant strides in his academic and extracurricular pursuits at RPI. At the time of his passing, he was involved in an accelerated MBA program alongside his undergraduate studies, aiming to blend his expertise in biomedical engineering with business acumen to advance his career in the medical devices industry.
During his time at RPI, Jay was not only a dedicated student but also a vital part of the campus community. He held the position of Vice President of Communications for the Pi Lambda Phi Fraternity, was consistently named to the Dean’s List, and contributed as an ALAC Tutor and an Undergraduate Research Assistant. His academic excellence was recognized early when he received provisional admission into RPI’s prestigious Lally School of Management’s MBA program after his freshman year, setting him on a path to graduate with both degrees by 2025.
Additionally, Jay’s leadership and commitment to helping others were evident through his roles beyond the classroom. He served as an I-PERSIST Chemistry Mentor, supporting incoming freshmen, and worked as a Client Liaison Manager at the Center for Disability Services in Watervliet, New York. His commitment to community service extended back to his hometown where he was a coach for the Special Olympics of New Hampshire’s basketball team.
Jay’s unexpected death has left the RPI community grappling with a profound loss, reflecting on the pressures faced by students and the critical importance of mental health support. The university has urged anyone dealing with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts to seek help immediately by contacting Lifeline@988.
As friends, family, and faculty remember Jay for his contributions and spirit, his passing underscores the urgent need for accessible mental health resources and support systems within academic institutions. Jay Hayes will be remembered not only for his academic and athletic achievements but also for his role as a cherished member of the RPI community.
