Earlier today, the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Department announced an arrest in the murder of University of Mississippi student Alexandria “Ally” Kostial. Charges have been filed against Brandon Theesfeld, a UM student who has been suspended by the university.
I want to extend our deepest sympathies once again to Ally’s family, friends and all others who knew her or interacted with her on campus. Ally was an engaged member of our community with friends across our campus and a promising future. The university will support the Kostial family in every way we can during this traumatic time.
These events remind us of the importance of leaning on each other in the wake of an event that we cannot understand. If needed, the University Counseling Center is offering walk-in grief counseling between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. to students, faculty and staff seeking additional support, or you can schedule an appointment by calling (662) 915-3784.
Ally’s death shocks the conscience and causes much pain and sorrow, but it does not define our campus community. We must draw strength from what brings us together as a community, even as we grieve this unspeakable loss.
Larry D. Sparks
Interim Chancellor
