Statement on the death of student Beau Solomon

Chancellor Rebecca Blank released the following statement on the death of Beau Solomon, a University of Wisconsin–Madison student who died in Rome, Italy:

“All of us at UW–Madison are greatly saddened by this loss. Beau was a bright and caring young man who lived the Wisconsin Idea through his work at Badger Boys State and his desire to travel and experience other cultures. Our hearts go out to Beau’s family and friends at this difficult time. UW–Madison is working with John Cabot University and with American and Italian authorities to assist Beau’s family and to support the investigation into his death.”

Additional information:

Beau’s death is being treated as a criminal investigation by local authorities in Rome. UW–Madison does not have any other details about the investigation at this time.

Based on the investigation thus far, there is no indication of a broader risk to students or others in Rome or elsewhere. Other UW–Madison students participating in the John Cabot program are safe and accounted for.

Counseling for students and resources for faculty and staff are available through University Health Services. Read more here or call 608-265-5600 (select option 9).

Beau just completed his first year of study as a personal finance major in the School of Human Ecology at UW–Madison. He previously studied at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College and UW-Richland. He is from Spring Green, Wisconsin.