To the Editor:

On March 24, Amber Johnson-Downey unexpectedly passed away. She was an Aramark cashier at Clarkson University and a big part of the student center family.

Amber had a bubbly and outgoing personality and a very feisty yet loving spirit. Her presence is definitely missed by all.

After Amber passed, the student center family set up a spot in the servery with her picture and flowers. Posters were made with pictures of her on them so the students could pay their respects and write a message about Amber in hopes this would help to comfort the kids with such an overwhelming loss.

I personally look forward to going to work every day because we have such amazing students. A lot of them put a smile on my face every day.

The Clarkson University Men’s Basketball Team recently worked together to raise $573 to help Amber’s family. Their team selflessly raised money through conducting raffles at a benefit game they put together – Clarkson University and SUNY Potsdam against St. Lawrence University and SUNY Canton on March 30.

This has been a challenging time for so many. These young men’s outpouring of love, selflessness and generosity has been overwhelming to say the least.

I am beyond proud of each and every one of these men. They took it upon themselves to be so generous and give so freely without being asked.

The group members are: Aime Kikoma, Leudin Dominguez, Keenan Gayle, Rob Welch, Joseph Mendoza, Justin Juan, Montell Robinson, Djomnang Pedie, Raekwon Filmore, Kidane Watson, Aboubacar Diaby, Collins Carbon, Isaiah Johnson, Jackey Chen, Jaeide Jawahill, Jaquant Vidot, Jheilyno Colon, Jorian Jordan, Joseph Joel, Joshua Forbes, Justin Corley, Justin Opini, Justin Svan, Manadou Ba, Oumar Ly, Rabbi Pierre, Robert Cheng, Royce Nsiah, Seth Onyukwu, Shawn Carter, and Timothy McKenzie.

The group is advised by Clarkson Staff members Kelvin Herrera-Hassan '14, Felix Abongo '15.

I for one can say we are so grateful to have them. Thank you to each and every one of you that played a part in this and thank you to each player of all four teams. My heart is still smiling.

April York

Potsdam