The Boston community is deeply saddened by the passing of Paige Dawson, a bright and compassionate young professional who died from complications related to epilepsy. Paige’s untimely death has left her family, friends, and colleagues heartbroken, as they remember a life marked by empathy, intelligence, and an unwavering desire to help others.
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Paige’s warmth and sense of purpose were evident from a young age. She was a proud graduate of the University of Michigan, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2023. Driven by her passion for mental health and social service, she went on to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) at the NYU Silver School of Social Work, where she continued to excel both academically and personally.
Paige’s professional journey reflected her deep commitment to improving the lives of others. Most recently, she served as an Inpatient Clinician at Ascendant New York, a role she took on with empathy and professionalism. Prior to that, she worked at Inter-Care, Ltd as both a Primary Clinician and Clinical Social Work Intern, providing therapeutic support to individuals in recovery.
Her previous experiences showcased her versatility and compassion — from serving as an Intake Coordinator at the Service Program for Older People (SPOP) to volunteering as an Active Listener with 7 Cups, where she offered emotional support to people struggling with mental health challenges.
Paige’s dedication to mental health research also stood out. She worked as a Research Assistant at several prestigious institutions, including the University of Michigan Medical School, Michigan Medicine, and UMass Chan Medical School, contributing to studies on epilepsy, neurology, and adolescent mental health.
During summers, Paige found joy working at Nikanos Mediterranean Restaurant in Ogunquit, Maine, where her kindness and vibrant personality made her beloved among staff and guests alike. She balanced her professional ambitions with genuine warmth — always taking time to listen, connect, and make others feel valued.
Friends and colleagues describe Paige as compassionate, intelligent, and full of life — someone whose smile could light up a room and whose empathy left a lasting mark on everyone she met. Her passing is not only a personal loss to those who loved her but also to the countless lives she touched through her work and kindness.
As one of her coworkers shared, “Paige had a heart made for healing others. Even when she faced her own struggles, she continued to lift those around her. She was truly special.”
Paige’s life, though far too short, was filled with purpose, passion, and love. Her legacy will live on in the people she helped, the communities she supported, and the memories she left behind.