Many at Ithaca College were greatly saddened to hear the shocking news of the passing of Michael Serventi '72, who died April 18 in a vehicle-bicycle accident in Vero Beach, Florida. He was 61.

Serventi was known by many at IC. He served on the board of trustees from 2001 to 2011; during that time he had a great impact on Ithaca College, but perhaps his greatest contribution was his service as chair of the Athletics and Events Center National Committee. He led the committee from its inception, and spearheaded the drive to raise the final funds needed so that construction could begin on schedule.

"Mike was an incredibly warm and special person with an unwavering commitment to Ithaca College," President Tom Rochon wrote in a message to the campus community. "Mike was a friend and colleague, an inspirational leader, and a shining example of the highest levels of personal and professional achievements accomplished by an Ithaca College graduate."

Serventi spoke at the A&E Center groundbreaking ceremony in 2009, and returned to speak at the dedication ceremony held last October in the completed building.

"Mike was a wonderful volunteer and I thoroughly enjoyed working with him on the A&E Center," said Shelley Semmler, who recently retired as vice president of institutional advancement at Ithaca College and worked with him closely.

"He connected with everyone involved -- donors, campaign members, coaches, the administration, and trustees," Semmler continued. "He was instrumental in getting the money raised and the building built. And he did so with respect for everyone else's role and a big dose of enthusiasm."

Michael Serventi served the College in countless ways. He will be greatly missed.

Calling hours will be held this Friday, May 4, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Eaton Watson Funeral Home (98 North Main Street, Perry, NY). There will also be a public memorial service at the Perry Central High School auditorium (33 Watkins Avenue, Perry, NY) on Saturday, May 5, at 5:00 p.m.