WORCESTER, MA — The Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) community is mourning the sudden loss of Alexander “Alex” Hughes, a student from Bellingham, Massachusetts, who died unexpectedly last week. His passing has left classmates, faculty, and loved ones heartbroken, while prompting renewed conversations about the importance of mental health awareness on college campuses.
Hughes was recognized at WPI for his intellect, curiosity, and dedication to his studies. Faculty and peers alike described him as a bright, thoughtful student whose academic potential was matched by his kindness and ability to connect with others. Friends recall his willingness to listen, encourage, and support those around him, making him a valued member of the community both inside and outside the classroom.
Beyond academics, Hughes was a proud member of Alpha Tau Omega – Gamma Sigma Chapter fraternity, where he found close friendships and camaraderie. His fraternity brothers remembered him for his loyalty, sense of humor, and genuine spirit, qualities that made him an integral part of their brotherhood. For Hughes, fraternity life represented far more than tradition—it provided him with lasting bonds and a sense of belonging.
Friends and family described him as a young man full of promise, resilience, and compassion. He enjoyed spending time with his fraternity brothers, participating in campus activities, and building meaningful connections. His presence, they said, brought light and joy to those around him.
The news of his death has deeply affected the WPI campus. In statements and messages shared this week, students, faculty, and administrators expressed their grief and emphasized the need for continued focus on mental health resources and outreach.
His family in Bellingham is devastated by the loss, remembering Hughes as a beloved son and brother who was deeply loved in return. They have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the WPI community and beyond during this difficult time.
Hughes’s passing serves as a sobering reminder of the unseen struggles many young people face. Advocates and campus leaders stressed the importance of creating spaces where students feel safe seeking help and ensuring that no one faces these challenges alone.
Though his life was cut tragically short, Alexander Hughes will be remembered for his intelligence, warmth, and the many lives he touched. His legacy lives on in his family, his fraternity, his classmates, and the broader WPI community.