University Reports Death of First-Year Grad Student in History

Maria Bowling, a first-year graduate student in the history department, died on Sunday, Princeton announced in an email. The cause of death was not disclosed.

“It is with great sadness that we write to inform you about a tragic loss to our community,” Rodney Priestley, dean of the Graduate School, and Rochelle Calhoun, vice president for campus life, said in an email to the campus community. “Maria was a beloved member of the history department and the Graduate School community.”

Bowling, 26, earned an M.A. in political science and B.A. in international studies from Sorbonne University in Paris. According to Beyond Borders, which funds doctoral students, Bowling was a 2023 fellow whose work centered on Angolan history.

According to Princeton, Bowling, who was born in Angola, was studying Angloan borderlands and the history and politics of language and nation-building in southern Africa.

She is survived by her husband, Tanner Bowling, parents, and a brother and sister.

Priestley and Calhoun said the University will host an opportunity for community members to gather and reflect on Bowling’s life on Monday at 6 p.m. at the Carl A. Fields Center.

“We know that every member of our community joins us in sending our condolences to Maria’s family and friends during this most difficult time,” they said.

The email reminded faculty and staff that they can speak with a licensed professional at Carebridge by calling 800-437-0911.