On Monday, August 29, I witnessed hundreds of people gather on our campus to mourn and remember our student Anthony Nazaire ’19 who was killed on the Cornell University campus this past Sunday.
As Anthony’s friends, classmates, staff, administrators, and professors, one after another, bravely spoke at the gathering, it became even more clear what a deep impact he had on this campus in just a little over a year. They shared moving stories about his bright smile, ever-present enthusiasm, and motivation to succeed. They noted his deep thirst for knowledge, his superior dance skills, and his eagerness to become an entrepreneur to help support his family financially and give back to others in his hometown, Brooklyn, New York. Some spoke personally about class projects they had worked on together, hopes for launching shared business ideas, and spending quiet moments together advising one another on personal matters.
Our IC community has demonstrated an outpouring of emotion and support for one another over the last few days. I ask that everyone in our community continue to check in with one another to offer consolation, encouragement, and support during this difficult time.
Funeral Services
Anthony’s family has announced that his funeral services will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 10, at the Church of the Holy Innocents at 279 East 17th Street, in Brooklyn. Anthony’s wake will be Sept. 9 from 4 to 9 p.m. at Harmony Funeral Home, 2200 Clarendon Rd. in Brooklyn.
The college is working to schedule bus transportation for faculty, staff, and students from Ithaca College who plan to attend and need assistance getting to and from the funeral on Saturday, September 10 in Brooklyn. Interested community members must reserve a seat on the bus by Wednesday, September 7 at 5 p.m. Seats are limited, so those interested should RSVP as soon as possible using this form. An RSVP is required to board the bus. The buses will depart at 4:30 a.m. from the Ithaca College O parking lot located behind the Park School of Communications. Buses will return to campus immediately following the funeral service.
Safety and Support
With the holiday weekend ahead, it is important for students to remember to be safe and remain aware of their surroundings, whether on campus or off campus. The Office of Public Safety is encouraging students to familiarize themselves with tips andpractices for maintaining personal safety on or off campus, as well as to familiarize themselves with the other safety-related services that the college offers.
For students who may need support over the weekend, you can contact the on-call professional Residential Life staff at 607-220-7993 or 607-220-7928.
The investigation into Anthony’s death is still active. The college urges anyone with information to contact the City of Ithaca’s Police Department at 607-697-0333.
Additional information, including any updates, will be posted on the Ithaca College website.
My gratitude goes out to all of our IC community members that have offered support to one another in this difficult time.
Rory Rothman
Associate Provost for Student Life