Hundreds of students gathered in the President’s garden outside of Milne Library at SUNY Oneonta this evening to share their memories of Nicholas Stagnitta, 20, who died by suicide on Saturday, Aug 25. Above, two of his ZBT fraternity brothers Kevin Middleton and Sam Campolo comfort each other after speaking about Nick. “He encouraged me to feel worthy in my own life.” said Middleton, “I couldn’t have asked for a better friend.” Speakers all remarked on his compassion, love and his ability to lift up and bring out the best in those around him. Rabbi Meir Rubashkin, right, also offered words of comfort; “If you are not forgotten, you are not gone. We speak about his spirit, his smile, that is his soul. His impact and his life will live on through us all.” Students and staff will be wearing blue and yellow ribbons on Friday in support of Nicholas’ family and friends. (Ian Austin/AllOTSEGO.com)

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