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Umberto Lopez, a senior at the New Rochelle High School, died on Monday, June 24, a day before graduation. At the event on Tuesday, Lopez’s family reportedly was presented with an honorary degree.
A moment of silence was held for Lopez and other students that lost their lives in the last academic year during the graduation ceremony.
In a statement, interim New Rochelle High School Principal Joseph Starvaggi said that “it is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I share some tragic news. A New Rochelle High School senior, Umberto Lopez, passed away suddenly yesterday.”
“Umberto was a smart, kind student who was loved by both his teachers and fellow students. Our condolences go out to his family and friends as they grieve the loss of their loved one,” he said. “Grief counselors are available at New Rochelle High School today for any student or staff member in need of emotional support.
Starvaggi said that “anyone who is struggling with this news to seek out the help of one of our counselors here at the school at 914-576-4542 or contact the Westchester Crisis Prevention and Response Team at (914) 925-5959 .”
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