Jose Del Rio-Malewski, a dedicated PhD student at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), passed away tragically by suicide at the Bauerle Garage on campus, leaving family, friends, and the UTSA community grieving his loss. Originally from Mexico City, Jose was known for his passion for science, his love for animals, and his deep commitment to education. As the first in his family to pursue a PhD, Jose’s accomplishments and dedication to his studies stood as an inspiration to many, but behind his academic success, he silently battled with depression.
In his honor, the UTSA community, including faculty, staff, and students, has come together to remember Jose’s life, reflect on his contributions, and raise awareness about the critical importance of mental health support and suicide prevention. This tragic event has sparked conversations across the university on the need for accessible mental health resources and compassion for those silently struggling.
A Life of Dedication and Academic Achievement
Jose Del Rio-Malewski’s journey to becoming a PhD student at UTSA was marked by determination, resilience, and a love for learning. Born and raised in Mexico City, he moved to the United States to pursue higher education with a commitment to scientific discovery and a passion for genetics. He completed his undergraduate degree at Grinnell College, a liberal arts institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility. It was here that Jose began his scientific journey, cultivating a deep curiosity and appreciation for genetics.
Following his time at Grinnell, Jose earned his Master’s degree in Genetics from Iowa State University, where he distinguished himself as a diligent and insightful student. His dedication to his studies led him to UTSA, where he continued his academic pursuits as a PhD student. Jose’s work in genetics was fueled not only by intellectual curiosity but also by a desire to contribute meaningful research to his field. Colleagues, professors, and fellow students remember him as a passionate learner who inspired others with his commitment to scientific exploration.
Throughout his academic career, Jose’s achievements stood as a testament to his hard work and perseverance. He was deeply respected within the UTSA community for his contributions to the field and admired for his unwavering dedication. As the first person in his family to pursue a doctoral degree, Jose served as a source of pride and inspiration to his loved ones, who celebrated his journey with hope and admiration.
A Compassionate Soul with a Deep Love for Animals
Outside of his academic life, Jose was known for his profound love for animals. He owned a dog who was his faithful companion, and he also cared for two bearded dragons and three axolotls. Friends and family recall how Jose’s compassion for animals reflected his gentle nature and empathetic spirit. Caring for these creatures brought him joy and fulfillment, providing a sense of companionship and connection that extended beyond his scholarly pursuits.
For Jose, his pets were more than just animals—they were cherished members of his family. His friends fondly remember the joy he found in caring for them, observing how his love for animals often became a source of comfort amid the pressures of his academic life. Jose’s devotion to his pets was just one aspect of the compassion he extended to those around him, whether human or animal.
A Community in Grief and a Call to Action for Mental Health Awareness
The news of Jose’s death has profoundly affected the UTSA community. Faculty, students, and staff have expressed their grief, shock, and sadness at the sudden loss of a beloved member of their academic family. Jose’s passing has opened up conversations about mental health, depression, and the importance of support systems for students facing personal struggles. University leaders, faculty members, and mental health advocates have emphasized the need for increased awareness and understanding of mental health challenges, especially in the high-stress environment of academia.
Dr. Taylor Jenkins, one of Jose’s professors, described him as a promising scholar with an inquisitive mind, whose kindness touched the lives of those around him. “Jose was not only an exceptional student but a compassionate and dedicated individual,” Dr. Jenkins shared. “His passing reminds us of the importance of reaching out to one another, offering support, and ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggles.”
To provide immediate support, UTSA has made mental health resources available to students, staff, and faculty affected by the tragedy. University President Dr. Taylor Eighmy released a statement expressing condolences to Jose’s family and friends and pledging the university’s commitment to enhancing mental health resources on campus. “Jose’s loss is felt deeply across our community. As we mourn his passing, we are reminded of the responsibility we have to one another,” President Eighmy said. “We are committed to supporting every member of our community and to providing the resources needed for mental well-being.”
Mental Health Resources and Suicide Prevention at UTSA
In the wake of Jose’s passing, UTSA has taken steps to increase accessibility to mental health resources and has encouraged students and staff to seek help if they are struggling. The university has provided information about various support systems available to students:
- Wellness 360 Counseling Services: UTSA offers short-term individual counseling, group counseling, and psychiatric care through Wellness 360. Students can reach out for counseling support and receive guidance on managing stress, depression, and anxiety.
- Timely Care: Timely Care is an on-demand virtual support service available to UTSA students. It provides 24/7 emotional support, appointment-based counseling, and advanced psychiatric care, ensuring that students have access to assistance at any time.
- 24/7 Crisis Helpline: For students and staff in immediate need of support, UTSA’s crisis helpline is available around the clock. The helpline can be reached at (210) 458-4140, providing immediate assistance for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis.
- Enhancing Wellbeing Initiative: In response to this tragedy, UTSA has committed to strengthening its existing mental health programs through the Enhancing Wellbeing Initiative. This task force is focused on developing new strategies to support the eight dimensions of well-being, including emotional, physical, and social well-being.
- Employee Assistance Program: For faculty and staff affected by Jose’s passing, UTSA offers confidential counseling resources through the Employee Assistance Program. This program provides support in coping with traumatic events and can be accessed 24/7 by calling (888) 993-7650.
University administrators have emphasized the importance of seeking help, reassuring the community that it is okay to ask for support. As part of a broader initiative to address mental health on campus, UTSA has illuminated its monuments in purple to raise awareness of suicide prevention and express solidarity with those affected by this loss. The color purple, symbolic of suicide awareness, serves as a visual reminder of the support available and the importance of reaching out.
Remembering Jose Del Rio-Malewski: A Legacy of Compassion and Scholarship
As the UTSA community processes the grief of losing Jose, his life and achievements continue to serve as a source of inspiration. Friends and colleagues describe Jose as a compassionate soul, someone who brought kindness and understanding to all his relationships. His legacy as a scholar and advocate for animals will remain deeply embedded in the hearts of those who knew him.
Jose’s family, still coming to terms with their loss, shared how deeply proud they were of him. His mother, Mariana Del Rio, expressed her pride in her son’s achievements, noting how he had become a role model for his younger relatives. “Jose was our family’s first PhD candidate,” she said. “He worked so hard to get where he was, and we couldn’t have been prouder. His kindness, his love for animals, and his dedication to his studies will never be forgotten.”
A Call for Compassion and Community Support
Jose’s tragic death has underscored the need for a compassionate community, where students and staff feel supported and encouraged to speak openly about their mental health struggles. University leaders, mental health advocates, and student organizations have emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of empathy and understanding within academic environments. In the coming weeks, UTSA plans to host a series of mental health workshops and awareness events designed to educate students on the signs of depression and how to support peers who may be struggling.
The tragedy has also renewed focus on suicide prevention, with campus counselors reminding students and faculty that help is always available. National organizations, including the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, are available 24/7 for anyone in need of support. UTSA encourages its community members to seek assistance, to talk openly about mental health, and to support one another through these challenging times.
For those mourning Jose’s loss, his memory will remain a testament to resilience, kindness, and dedication to both his academic and personal passions. As the UTSA community grieves, they come together with a renewed commitment to mental health support and the promise to honor Jose’s legacy through compassion, understanding, and action.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 988 for support and resources, providing confidential assistance to anyone in need. In the words of Jose’s mentor, “May his memory inspire us all to be kinder to ourselves and to others, and to remember that no one is alone in their journey.”
