Anthony Nazaire, victim of stabbing at Cornell, remembered by IC Community

Ithaca College student Anthony Nazaire died after a being stabbed to death on Cornell University’s campus following a student organized event Saturday night. On Monday, the Ithaca College community honored Nazaire with a memorial service coordinated by the college’s Chaplain, Father Carstens. At least 100 people attended, packing the chapel, with some listening outside.

Anthony Nazaire, 19, was stabbed to death during a fight on Cornell University’s campus early Sunday morning. 

Nazaire, 19, was studying business administration at Ithaca College. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, he attended the Brooklyn Theater Arts High School. He was the Vice President for the campus organization Brothers4Brothers, a group dedicated to empowering young men of color.

At the gathering, Nazaire’s professors and friends shared their memories of the college sophomore. Many pointed out his positive attitude and “good vibes” that Nazaire seemed to emanate. After having a rough first college semester, Nazaire’s professors said he was on a new path.

“One of the things he said to me was, ‘I need to be successful,'” Sean Reid, Dean of the Ithaca College School of Business, said. “And he had a plan to be successful.”

Two of Nazaire’s dedicated songs in his memory, and others shared their memories of Nazaire’s positive energy and ambition. Both those close to him and those acquainted with him spoke at the service. After an hour-and-a-half, the gathering came to a close.

Ithaca College president Tom Rochon released a statement encouraging campus community to support each other during this time of tragedy.

“Our entire community — on and off campus — is diminished by Anthony’s killing, whether we knew him personally or not,” Rochon wrote.

The college reminds students that counseling is available through personal support networks, and the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services on the IC campus. Those with information regarding the events of Sunday morning are asked to contact the Ithaca Police Department.