Josh Berenzweig death: Obituary, cause of death – Member of the Columbia College class of 2020 from Gaithersburg, Maryland, beloved Josh Berenzweig passed away while on a leave of absence in Brooklyn.
Columbia students received an email from Dean James Valentini on December 4th 2019 about Josh Berenzweig death.
At Columbia, Berenzweig was active in Columbia Hillel and Delta Kappa Alpha Professional Cinema society. Those who knew him described him as caring deeply about friendships, a thoughtful student, and eager to try new things.
The email which invited members of the Columbia community who wish to honor Berenzweig to congregate in the Schapiro Lounge from 4 to 6 p.m this afternoon read:
Dear Students,
I write to share sad news of the passing of Josh Berenzweig, who arrived at Columbia College with the Class of 2020 to study computer science.
A native of Gaithersburg, MD, Josh was currently on a leave of absence from the University and residing in Brooklyn.
While on campus, he was active in a number of campus organizations including Columbia Hillel and Delta Kappa Alpha.
Josh is remembered by his family as a beautiful and kind person who was outgoing, friendly, fun-loving, creative and musical. They noted that he cared deeply about the friendships he forged while at Columbia.
Josh’s adviser told me he was a thoughtful student with an endless supply of energy. He is described by Hillel’s engagement director as having a warm smile and an eagerness to try new things and meet new people.
Students, faculty and staff who wish to gather and share remembrances are invited to congregate in Schapiro Lounge today, December 4, 4:00–6:00 p.m. […]
The loss of a community member affects every one of us, even those who did not know Josh. We are also mindful that this news comes at what can be an especially stressful time in the semester, with finals approaching.
I encourage you to reach out to family, friends, advisers, faculty, counselors, peer advisers or any other member of your network for support should you need it.
I send my heartfelt condolences to Josh’s family and friends as we mourn his loss.
With deepest sympathy,
James J. Valentini
Dean of Columbia College and
Vice President for Undergraduate Education
Please say a prayer for Josh’s grieving family. May his soul rest in perfect peace.