The Cornell University community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Joselyn Guadalupe Garcia ’29, who was found deceased in her campus residence hall on Friday morning. The tragic news was shared later that afternoon in a message from Dean of Students Marla Love and Peter Loewen, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
Joselyn, a first-year student enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences, had already begun to make her mark on campus. According to the university’s statement, she intended to pursue a degree in biological sciences, with the long-term goal of becoming a dentist. Her ambition, drive, and care for others reflected a young woman filled with potential and hope for the future.
Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Joselyn was a proud first-generation college student. She participated in Cornell’s Pre-Collegiate Summer Scholars Program and First at Cornell: First-Generation Student Pre-Orientation, where she quickly built connections with peers who shared her experiences. Friends and mentors recall her determination and resilience, as well as her warmth and ability to make others feel seen and supported.
Before arriving at Cornell, Joselyn was already recognized as a leader in her community. In high school, she was deeply involved in community service, athletics, and student government, where she inspired others with her dedication, kindness, and leadership. Her passion for helping others was at the heart of her aspiration to enter the medical field, and those who knew her describe her as someone who constantly encouraged and uplifted others.
Joselyn is survived by her parents and three younger siblings, who now mourn the devastating loss of their beloved daughter and sister. The Cornell community extends its deepest sympathy to her family as they navigate this unimaginable grief.
The announcement of Joselyn’s passing comes alongside the loss of Michael Lenetsky, Senior Department Manager for the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, whose death was also announced on Friday. The two losses have left the campus community grieving deeply.
To support students, faculty, and staff during this difficult time, the University has organized opportunities for gathering and reflection. A support meeting for the College of Arts and Sciences community will be held on Monday, Sept. 22, at 5 p.m. in G28 Lewis Auditorium, Goldwin Smith Hall, followed by a full Cornell community support meeting at 7 p.m. in 404 Willard Straight Hall.
Dean Love and Dean Loewen encouraged students and colleagues to lean on available resources and one another, writing: “As our community struggles with these losses, we encourage everyone to care for one another and seek support when you need it. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Joselyn and Michael and ask that you keep them in your thoughts as they grieve these losses.”
