Thaddeus “Thad” Lucentini ’29, a first-year student in the College of Arts and Sciences who died Monday while home in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, for fall break. University leaders shared the news in a campus-wide message on Tuesday, describing Lucentini as a promising scholar and athlete whose enthusiasm for life left an impression on many.
Lucentini, a graduate of St. Paul’s School, had only recently begun his studies in history at the Ivy League institution. He was also a member of the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC), reflecting a commitment to service that inspired his peers. At St. Paul’s, Lucentini competed in alpine skiing, cross country, and rowing, earning recognition for his discipline and teamwork.
“Our thoughts are with Thad’s loved ones,” wrote Dean of Students Marla Love and Peter Loewen, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, instructors, and classmates.”
A Semester of Shared Loss
Lucentini’s passing marks the fourth death in the College of Arts and Sciences this semester, following the losses of fellow freshman Joselyn Guadalupe Garcia ’29, Michael Lenetsky, a senior department manager in Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and Prof. Debra Castillo, a respected scholar of comparative literature.
In their message, Love and Loewen urged compassion and mutual support during what they called “a difficult time for our community.” The university organized a support gathering Tuesday evening in Willard Straight Hall, with a second community meeting scheduled for Wednesday in Goldwin Smith Hall.
A Reminder of Mental Health Awareness
Cornell, like many universities nationwide, has increased efforts to support student mental health amid rising concerns about stress and grief on college campuses. The university emphasized the availability of counseling, peer networks, and crisis services, including the Ithaca-based crisis line (607-272-1616) and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Lucentini is survived by his parents.
As the Cornell community reflects on his short but meaningful time in Ithaca, friends and faculty remember a young man whose curiosity, kindness, and courage embodied the best of what higher education hopes to nurture — a life dedicated to learning, leadership, and connection.
