Princeton Mourns the Loss of Lauren Blackburn ’26, A Brilliant Scholar and Cherished Member of the Community
The Princeton University community is grieving the loss of Lauren Blackburn, a beloved student of the Class of 2026, who tragically passed away last week at Lake Carnegie at the age of 23. A gifted scholar, compassionate friend, and passionate creative, Lauren’s death has left a deep and painful void in the hearts of classmates, faculty, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Originally from Corydon, Indiana, Lauren was an English major with a minor in creative writing. He graduated from Corydon Central High School with high distinction, earning recognition as both a National Merit Scholar and a Gates Scholar—two honors that reflected not only his academic excellence but also his commitment to growth, opportunity, and making a meaningful impact in the world.
Lauren’s family, in a message shared with the University, expressed both their heartbreak and appreciation:
“While we are deeply saddened by Lauren’s untimely death, we wish to express our profound gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and well wishes from so many of you whom we don’t even know. The immense support has lightened our hearts and strengthened us in this difficult time. This is a truly special community that our son loved being a part of. He loved learning, the classes, and the many people he met here. We will be forever grateful that he could be a Tiger.”
A Passion for Learning, Art, and Community
At Princeton, Lauren was a student whose presence extended well beyond the classroom. His intellect, curiosity, and empathy were evident in everything he pursued—from literature and poetry to student journalism and cultural engagement.
As a recipient of the Sam Hutton Fund for the Arts, Lauren spent time over the summer pursuing creative projects supported by the Lewis Center for the Arts. He was widely admired by his professors and peers for his thoughtful insights, original voice, and the deep emotional resonance of his writing. His work explored themes of identity, belonging, and the power of language—often drawing from his own lived experiences and heritage.
A proud resident of New College West, Lauren embraced the residential college’s mission of fostering community and inclusion. He could often be found playing table tennis with friends late into the evening, or discussing literature over dinner in the dining hall. He was a regular contributor to The Daily Princetonian, where his writing stood out for its clarity, compassion, and sincerity.
Lauren was also actively involved in the Korean Literature Club and the Korean Student Association, where he found connection and cultural camaraderie. He was known for his openness and willingness to listen—qualities that made him not just a good friend, but also a trusted mentor to younger students.
A Life Remembered, A Community United in Grief
In the wake of Lauren’s death, tributes have poured in from all corners of the University. Faculty members remembered him as a rare talent—curious, engaged, and deeply respectful. Fellow students spoke of his warmth, his thoughtful nature, and his readiness to uplift others even when facing his own challenges.
While his passing is a devastating loss, Lauren’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the stories he helped tell. His creativity, intellect, and kindness formed a constellation of qualities that made him truly exceptional.
University leadership has emphasized the availability of grief counseling and support services for students, faculty, and staff. A campus-wide memorial service is currently being planned, where the community will come together to honor Lauren’s life, share memories, and support one another in healing.
A Lasting Impact
In just a few short years, Lauren Blackburn made an indelible mark on Princeton. He was a young man of tremendous talent and even greater promise. His passion for literature and storytelling reflected a deep humanity and a rare sensitivity to the world around him.
Though gone far too soon, Lauren’s spirit endures—in the classrooms he loved, the communities he helped build, and the words he left behind. He was, and will always be, a Tiger.
May his memory be a blessing.