Current events remind us of life’s uncertainty, but by celebrating the bright preciousness of each life we can dispel the pandemic’s gloom. Today more than ever we appreciate one another’s presence, and yearn for the company of friends and family, neighbors and even strangers.

On this particular Day of Remembrance, let us broaden that sense of appreciation by honoring the recently deceased members of our University community.

Pause for a moment today. Recall their lives with fondness and gratitude. Share a memory of them with a friend or colleague. Make the day blaze with our collective thankfulness for lives lived, and optimism for life yet to be lived.

We are all – Now and Forever a Zip.

Joseph R. Urgo
Interim Provost

Loss is something that we all experience that never gets easier.

This fall, my family and I had to face the passing of my grandfather. He had spent the last few years of his life battling illness, so we knew this was coming. But loss is still loss. Whether expected or not, the hurt is still the same, and for a while I was crushed, my grandfather was the strongest person I knew. His passing put me in a bad place, but the support system I had at home and at the University of Akron brought me back. I am grateful for the professors that were understanding and gave me a little extra time to heal. I am thankful for the friends that always checked in with me and made sure I was ok. And I had my student organizations that made me feel like I was part of a greater community, and made me realize I was never alone.

My grandfather lived for his family and his community and that is something that I will carry on throughout my life. He never attended the University of Akron, but he shared the spirit of our community. A spirit that is devoted to the betterment of all. Of lifting and helping each other. Of celebrating our achievements and supporting each other through difficult times. Our spirit of unity is what makes Zips great. By caring for one another we can rise together to overcome our losses and our pain.

When thinking about our lost loved ones, it’s expected, normal, and reasonable to feel sadness, anger, and even longing to speak to that person again. The best way we can honor those who have passed is by living our lives to the fullest. Celebrate the memory of your loved ones. Support each through the dark times. We’re all Zips, and we are family.

Mark Okocha
Student Body President

We are Akron. We are a family composed of unique individuals from diverse backgrounds. Together, we’ve celebrated our accomplishments as well as supported one another amongst difficult times. Nothing can be more difficult than losing a member of our Zip family. During this UA Remembrance Day, our family remembers the Zips we have lost. Yet, in the midst of our grief, we can celebrate their life and impact they have had on our own lives. We can share stories that enrich our memory of the Zips who are no longer with us. Our Zip family extends past campus and graduation. Our Zip family is forever.

With loving thoughts,

Amanda Stefin
President, Graduate Student Government