Dear HHS Family,
We are deeply saddened to inform you of the loss of one of our international students this week. Olushola “Shola” Ishola was in his first semester in the Master of Arts in Peace & Conflict Studies. During his first month of studies he received a cancer diagnosis. He fought a brave battle within the short period of his diagnosis. He was only 39.
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 Monday 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.
One of Shola’s professors, Dr. Marcia Hale, expressed, “In the short time that we were privileged to know Shola, his kindness and courage, and love of and commitment to family and community shone so brightly. I cannot begin to imagine the depth of loss being felt by those family, friends, and communities.”
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 child back home in Nigeria, his sister and brother-in-law 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 School of Health and Human Sciences.
A campus vigil is planned in Shola’s memory on Wednesday, Nov. 9. Information will be sent out once plans are finalized.
Please know that UNCG has several support mechanisms in place to offer assistance to students who are grieving at this time. The International Programs Center staff are available for you and can be reached at (336) 334-5404. You can also email at isss@uncg.edu to set up a virtual or face-to-face meeting. The UNCG Counseling Center can provide telehealth support at (336) 334-5874. Faculty and staff may receive assistance through the ComPsych Guidance Resources Program, at 1-800-630-4847.
Sincerely,
Dr. Carl G. Mattacola, Dean, School of Health & Human Sciences
Dr. Douglas P. Fry, Chair, Peace and Conflict Studies
