Albany Community Mourns Loss of Director of Student Experiences Erin Couture
The University at Albany community is mourning the loss of Erin Couture, Director of Student Experiences for the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity (CEHC), who passed away on New Year’s Day.
Couture joined CEHC in 2018 as an academic advisor and later became Director of Student Experiences, a role in which she played a key part in supporting student engagement and success across the college. Throughout her tenure, she was widely respected for her dedication to students, thoughtful leadership, and commitment to experiential learning.
In her role, Couture led CEHC’s experiential education, internationalization, and professional development initiatives. She managed professional development programming and oversaw applied learning–related coursework for both undergraduate and graduate students. Her responsibilities also included managing the college’s internship, peer education, capstone, and undergraduate research programs, all of which are central to CEHC’s applied learning curriculum. Additionally, she coordinated and oversaw numerous CEHC events each semester aimed at connecting, engaging, and supporting students academically and professionally.
Couture’s academic background reflected her commitment to education and communication. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Communication from The College of Saint Rose and a Master of Science in Academic Advising from Kansas State University. In recognition of her dedication and behind-the-scenes contributions, she received the Unsung Hero Award in 2020.
Colleagues and students remember Erin Couture as a caring and devoted professional who consistently went above and beyond to advocate for students and enrich their academic experiences. She was a valued and beloved member of the CEHC community, known for her kindness, compassion, and genuine concern for others.
Beyond her professional roles, Couture was a cherished daughter whose loss is deeply felt by family, friends, colleagues, and students. The University at Albany has extended its condolences to all those mourning her passing as the community reflects on her lasting impact and legacy.
