Laura Grafe Accident Philadelphia, PA Death and Obituary – The Bryn Mawr College community is grieving the tragic loss of Dr. Laura Grafe, a cherished faculty member in the Department of Psychology, who died in a fatal car accident on Monday in Philadelphia, PA. Her sudden passing has left a profound void in the hearts of her colleagues, students, and the broader academic community.
Dr. Grafe joined Bryn Mawr College in 2018 and quickly established herself as an exceptional educator, a pioneering researcher, and a compassionate mentor. As one of the founding members of the Bi-Co Neuroscience program—a collaborative major and minor shared between Bryn Mawr and Haverford Colleges—she played a key role in designing an innovative curriculum that bridged psychology and biology. Her dedication to fostering interdisciplinary learning opened doors for countless students and elevated the college’s academic standing.
Laura’s academic journey reflected a lifelong commitment to understanding the brain and behavior. She earned dual B.S. degrees in Physiology and Neurobiology, and Psychology from the University of Maryland in 2008. She went on to complete her Ph.D. in Neuroscience at the University of Pennsylvania in 2013. Her postdoctoral fellowship at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia further honed her research focus on developmental neuroscience.
Dr. Grafe’s scholarly work centered on the impacts of stress on the brain, particularly how these effects contribute to behavior and mental health outcomes. Her research made meaningful contributions to understanding sex differences in stress responses, hormonal influences, and the role of sleep in psychological well-being. Her commitment to advancing women’s health in neuroscience was both pioneering and deeply personal.
In the classroom, Dr. Grafe was widely admired for her clarity, intellectual rigor, and empathy. Courses such as Behavioral Psychology, Introduction to Psychology, and Stress Neuroscience became student favorites under her instruction. She was known not only for her expertise but for creating a welcoming environment that encouraged inquiry and growth. Even before receiving tenure, she had already shaped the academic and personal paths of many students through her mentorship and support of undergraduate research.
Beyond her academic achievements, Laura was remembered for her kindness, humility, and genuine warmth. Colleagues described her as a dynamic and engaged presence, always ready to offer support or thoughtful advice. Her impact extended far beyond lecture halls and research labs—she was a friend, a role model, and a source of light for many.
Laura Grafe is survived by her husband, Corey, and their two young children. The Bryn Mawr College community extends its deepest sympathies to her family, loved ones, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. In this time of mourning, the college has made counseling and spiritual support available to both students and staff.
Dr. Laura Grafe leaves behind a legacy of academic excellence, unwavering compassion, and deep human connection. Her contributions will continue to inspire future generations, and her memory will be cherished by all whose lives she touched.
Would you like help creating a visual tribute or memory board for Dr. Grafe?