It is with a heavy heart that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Joselyn Guadalupe Garcia ’29, a dedicated student at Cornell University, who was found deceased in her campus residence hall on Friday morning. The news was confirmed in a heartfelt email sent by Dean of Students Marla Love and Peter Loewen, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, later that afternoon. The campus community is mourning the loss of a bright young woman whose life was filled with promise and ambition.
Guadalupe Garcia was an enrolled student in the College of Arts and Sciences, with aspirations to study biological sciences. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, she was a first-generation college student, exemplifying perseverance and dedication to her educational journey. Her commitment to her academic and personal growth was evident through her participation in various programs, including the Pre-Collegiate Summer Scholars Program and First at Cornell: First Generation Student Pre-Orientation. These experiences highlighted her determination to succeed and her desire to make the most of her college years.
Guadalupe Garcia was known for her leadership qualities and active involvement in her community. During high school, she was recognized as an aspiring dentist and was a leader in numerous community service initiatives, athletic teams, and student government groups. Her peers and teachers remembered her as a compassionate, driven, and inspiring individual who sought to make a positive impact on those around her. Her vibrant personality and dedication to service left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.
The university expressed its deepest sympathies to Guadalupe Garcia’s family, friends, instructors, and classmates. She is survived by her parents and three younger siblings, who are undoubtedly mourning the loss of their beloved daughter and sister. The campus community shares in their grief and stands united in offering support during this difficult time.
In addition to Guadalupe Garcia’s passing, the university also announced the recent death of Michael Lenetsky, senior department manager for the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology. The coincidence of these losses has deeply affected the campus community, prompting the university to organize support resources.
To provide space for healing and support, Cornell has scheduled a community support meeting at 5 p.m. on Monday, September 22, in G28 Lewis Auditorium, Goldwin Smith Hall, specifically for the arts and sciences community. A broader support session for the entire Cornell community will be held at 7 p.m. on the same day in 404 Willard Straight Hall, the Browsing Library.
Dean Loewen and Dean Love have urged everyone on campus to take care of themselves and each other, emphasizing the importance of seeking support when needed. “As our community struggles with these losses, we encourage everyone to care for one another and seek support when you need it,” they stated. They also extended their deepest condolences to Guadalupe Garcia’s family and friends, asking the campus community to keep them in their thoughts as they grieve these profound losses. The university remains committed to providing resources and support to help students, faculty, and staff navigate this difficult time.
