November 8. 2022

Dear Campus Community,

I am deeply saddened to inform you of the loss of one of our international students.

was in his first semester in the Master of Arts in Peace & Conflict Studies program. During his first month of studies, he received a cancer diagnosis. He was only 39. He fought a brave battle within the short period of his treatments. Shola took each day in its stride, projecting nothing but positivity and hope, never complaining, even when he was visibly ill from the medications. His health unexpectedly deteriorated and he lost his battle with cancer late last night at Cone Health Wesley Long Hospital. He led a short but very impactful life and will be sorely missed by friends, family, and his fellow international Spartans.
Shola is remembered for being an amazing husband to his wife Ikeade, a doting father to his son Desire and a supportive brother to his four siblings. He was an easy-going person, free spirited, and always willing to go the extra mile for his loved ones.

Shola is survived by a wife and son back home in Nigeria, his sister and brother-in-law who live in Ohio. Our hearts go out to Shola’s family and friends, those who knew and loved him, and other Spartans who are touched by this loss, especially our tight-knit community of international students and scholars, those in the Peace & Conflict Studies Department, and the College of Health and Human Sciences.

A campus vigil is planned in Shola’s memory Wednesday, November 9th, and information will be sent out once plans are finalized.

Please know that UNCG has several support mechanisms in place to offer assistance to students, faculty, and staff who are grieving at this time. The International Programs Center staff are here for you and we can be reached by calling (336) 334-5404 or emailing isss@uncg.edu. Students who need individual support can contact UNCG’s Counseling and Psychological Services at 336.334.5874 to talk to a counselor at any time (24/7). Faculty and staff can get free and confidential support through the ComPsych Guidance Resources program by calling 1-800-630-4847. The Dean of Students Office is also available to assist students experiencing academic or personal difficulties and can be reached at (336) 334-5514.

Sincerely,

Dr. Maria Anastasiou, Associate Provost for International Programs

With the permission of his family, Olu Mike has created a  GOFUNDME campaign to help rally the community around his funeral and medical expenses.  Please consider donating to his family at the link below.

https://gofund.me/65397a1e