In Memoriam Midas Berkenveld
With great shock, we have learned of the sudden passing of Midas Berkenveld. Midas was a second-year Biology student; in 2022, he had already successfully completed his bachelor's degree in Linguistics.
The unexpected nature of his death deeply affects us and makes it hard to comprehend. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you need to talk:
- Veli Yavuzturk, study advisor for the Biology programme at biobscstudieadviseur@biology.leidenuniv.nl or via 071-527 5131, or by visiting his office in the Sylvius building (Sylvius, 1.5.16).
- Elly van Laar, wellbeing officer: e.j.van.laar@science.leidenuniv.nl, she will email or call you back as soon as possible.
You can also seek support from the university services listed on this website and make an appointment with a student psychologist (contact psychologen@sea.leidenuniv.nl or call 071-527 8026 to schedule a meeting). Are you a staff member in need of support? You can turn to your supervisor or HR advisor.
Study association ‘Leidse Biologen Club’, together with the programme, is setting up a memorial space on the first floor of the Sylvius building, where from Monday, 7th October, you can pay your respects to Midas, either alone or with others. A condolence book will also be available at the memorial site, where you can leave a message.
We hold Midas in our thoughts and wish his family and friends all the strength they need during this difficult time. His cheerfulness, energetic presence, and enthusiasm will be greatly missed by many.
* This message will be updated at a later time*