Prayers Requested for Megan Saari

Dear Members of the Saint Mary’s College Community,

It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I inform you that undergraduate student, Megan Saari, passed away suddenly from acute leukemia on Sunday, December 19. We extend our deepest sympathies to Megan’s family, friends, fellow students, teachers, and all whose lives she touched.

Megan was a Justice, Community, and Leadership major with a concentration in Multiple Subject Teacher Education. She was going to be an elementary school teacher. She was Treasurer for The Lounge, a sponsored organization within the Intercultural Center. She would have graduated in May 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree and a preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. 

Megan’s mother shared with us some beautiful and poignant words:  “Megan’s heart was filled with so much compassion for others. She always put others first and loved to watch them be successful. She was an extraordinary daughter, big sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend. Her love for books was inspiring and showcased her love for learning and how she taught the love of reading to her students. Her laugh was contagious and she always offered a listening ear and a loving hand to hold. She was so loyal to her friends and family. She will truly never be forgotten and will continue to inspire others from above. Our hearts ache that she’s gone.”

Her father added:  "Megan loved Saint Mary's College. She was blossoming at Saint Mary's with all the support of her faculty, the staff, and fellow students." 

Expressions of condolences may be sent to Megan’s parents:

Steve and Lisa Saari
8120 Carlisle Way
Vallejo, CA 94591
Or via email to:
lisasaari123@gmail.com
stevesaari3@gmail.com

Support from the office of Counseling and Psychological Services is available for our campus community members during this difficult time. Please contact Dr. Jennifer Panish directly at (510) 220-5102. Starting Thursday, December 23, contact Dr. Cynthia Cutshall at (650) 274-4869. You may also email: caps4364@stmarys-ca.edu.

Funeral arrangements are pending and will be shared when they are confirmed.

Meanwhile, please join me in praying for the repose of the soul of Megan and comfort for her family and friends.

Sincerely, 

Richard Plumb, PhD
President