Pepperdine Mourns the Passing of Seaver College Student Nicholay Osokin

Pepperdine University mourns the loss of Seaver College student Nicholay Osokin, who passed away on Saturday, November 13, 2021. Oskokin was pursuing a bachelor's degree in international business and minoring in applied mathematics and Asian studies. A graduate of Sage Hill High School in Newport Coast, California, Osokin was a student with diverse interests and hobbies including work in the construction industry and a passion for cars.

“Nicholay was a brilliant student. He was as driven and conscientious a student as I have ever encountered,” said Daniel Overton, assistant professor of communication at Seaver College. “In our conversations, Nicholay made clear how deeply he cared about his friends and family and how specifically he anticipated making the world a better place through his business passions.” 

In expressing his grief, Overton recalled Osokin concluding one of his speeches in his course with a quote from Joseph Campbell: “The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are,” sharing that, “Nicholay was unapologetically himself in the best possible way, and I am privileged to have known him. I am better for it.” 

Felicity Vabulas, associate professor of international studies, offered similar sentiments. “I am heartbroken to hear about Nicholay’s passing,” she said. “He was a curious and thoughtful student in my international relations class. I particularly appreciated him bringing a non-US perspective into our discussions given that he spent parts of his childhood living in Kazakhstan and Russia.”

Those who feel they may need additional support are encouraged to contact the Counseling Center (310.506.4210) for 24/7 emotional assistance. Pastoral care is available from University chaplain Sara Barton (310.506.4275) and the team of chaplains at the Hub for Spiritual Life. The Student Care Team is available to provide additional support or to help locate mental health professionals in local communities.

Details regarding celebration of life arrangements will be shared with the University community as additional information becomes available.