Junior Chris Sanders was found dead in his Kilgo Quadrangle dormitory room early Tuesday morning, University administrators said Tuesday afternoon. He was 20 years old.
Larry Moneta, vice president for student affairs, notified students in an e-mail that Sanders had passed away and that "initial indications" suggested that no foul play was involved.
A medical examiner was called in to investigate the cause of death, which was unknown as of Tuesday afternoon, said Sara-Jane Raines, executive officer for Duke University Police Department. She added that DUPD is the primary investigator in the case.
Dean of Students Sue Wasiolek said Sanders' room will be sealed off by police until the investigation has concluded.
The New Haven, Conn., native was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity, a diver on the men's swimming team and a member of the First-Year Advisory Council Board.
Wasiolek said staff from the Office of Student Affairs are in the process of meeting with the different organizations of which Sanders was a member.
"Our focus has really been to notify the parents and now to work with all of Chris' friends on campus," she said.
Two administrators from Student Affairs-Clay Adams, program coordinator for the Dean of Students Office, and Todd Adams, assistant dean of students for fraternity and sorority life-left a conference early to fly back to campus Tuesday evening in order to be with students.
Sanders was an art history major and graduated from Notre Dame High School in West Haven, Conn., in 2004.
Those who knew Sanders said he will be remembered for his kindness as a friend and enthusiasm as a teammate.
"He made people laugh. He made people feel good," said Dan Colella, head coach of the men's swimming team. "He's going to be sorely missed."
Sanders' fraternity brothers in Sigma Nu said he will be remembered for his infectious laugh and his loyalty as a friend.
"Chris's death came as a shock to all of us. He touched everyone that knew him in ways impossible to express," the fraternity wrote in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all who loved him."
More than 100 people attended a memorial service for Sanders Tuesday night in the Old Chemistry Building. There will be a formal service in the Duke Chapel Wednesday night at 9 p.m.
Get The Chronicle straight to your inbox
Signup for our weekly newsletter. Cancel at any time.