Slippery Rock University mourns death of student-athlete
A student-athlete of Slippery Rock University died at his off-campus residence on Thursday, May 23, according to the university.
Jacob Baker, a senior at the university from Thurmont, Md., was 22. Baker played his first season at SRU in the fall, after transferring from Towson University. He appeared in eight games as a defensive end and helped The Rock to the 2023 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference West title and a trip to the NCAA Division II quarterfinals.
During his time at Slippery Rock University, Baker earned PSAC Scholar-Athlete honors as a marketing major. He was also a dean's list honoree at Clarion, where he began his college career in 2021, according to a news release from the university.
In a letter to the university community following Baker’s death, Slippery Rock University President Karen Riley said support is available at the university for anyone struggling with the loss of a colleague.
“This is a time of great sorrow for our entire university community,” Riley wrote. “I would encourage you to support one another and to take care of yourselves. Give grace to each other and to yourselves as we struggle with this.
“Jake was a member of our SRU football team, and so we also want to hold his teammates, coaches, trainers and our entire athletics department in our hearts.”
Baker’s coach said his death will be a hit to the team, the university and the community.
“Jake was a terrific student and teammate, and a cherished member of our Rock football family,” football head coach Shawn Lutz said. “We are heartbroken by his loss, and we share our deepest condolences with his family and friends.”
Riley wrote in her letter that “every SRU student contributes to who we are as a university community, and Jake’s loss affects us all.”
“It is simply heartbreaking,” Riley said. “Our community will miss him terribly.”
SRU offers a variety of support services.
The news release from the university said students on campus or in the community this summer can contact the dean of students office at 724-738-2121, which is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Students that are away from campus can seek help through the Center for Community Resources of Butler County. Crisis support is available 24/7 at 800-292-3866, or by text at 62388.
Faculty and staff can contact the State Employee Assistance Program 24/7 by calling 800-692-7459.
