Cornell prepares to pay tribute to sophomore Darryl Wu
He was found dead in Collegetown on Tuesday
Tragically, another of our peers had their lives cut short.
Just days after the fatal stabbing of Ithaca College student Anthony Nazaire, Cornell junior Darryl Wu was found dead in his Collegetown apartment.
According to Arts and Sciences Dean Gretchen Ritter, Darryl was a scientist as well as a linguist who had competed in several international competitions.
The first orders of business for the Cornell and Ithaca communities at this time should be to honor Darryl’s memory and to take care of those that were close to him.
Tragedies, however, must be learned from if future ones are to be prevented. Darryl lived alone in a Collegetown apartment, a situation not uncommon among Cornell upperclassmen.
If a friend who lives alone hasn’t contacted you in a while, shoot them a quick text to see if they’re alright. If you haven’t seen your neighbor walking the halls lately, consider knocking on their door. What might seem like being pushy or obnoxious could save someone from being seriously injured or worse.
As Dean Ritter said: “Take a moment to remember Darryl and acknowledge this profound loss within our community.”
And after you do that, accompany that friend who’s meeting up with a stranger. Check on that kid on your floor that seems depressed. Be a sober monitor or a designated driver. Take initiative. Be kind.
Do it for Darryl.
There will be a vigil to remember Darryl Wu and Anthony Nazaire on Thursday 4pm, on Ho Plaza.
Students can speak to counselors from Gannett Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) by calling 607-255-5155, or speak with a peer counselor by calling EARS at 607-255-3277.