Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,
I am deeply saddened to share with you that today the LaSalle County Coroner’s Office confirmed the remains found in early September have been identified as Jelani Day. Together, we mourn his loss. His family and friends are foremost in our thoughts during this difficult time and we extend our deepest condolences.
Jelani, who was reported missing by his family on August 25, was a well-liked and well-respected Illinois State University graduate student. He joined his graduate program this summer and his impact on the campus community was immediate – he is remembered as kind, intelligent, and caring. Details regarding how our community will come together to celebrate Jelani’s life and honor his memory will be forthcoming.
As members of the Redbird family, please remember that you are not alone. Students seeking support should not hesitate to reach out at any time to Student Counseling Services by visiting their website or by calling (309) 438-3655. Faculty and staff in need of support are encouraged to seek services provided by the Employee Assistance Program offered by Human Resources.
I want to thank everyone who assisted with raising awareness of Jelani’s disappearance, whether through social media, participating in searches, distributing missing person flyers and posters, sharing with family and friends, or attending the Night of Support hosted by Illinois State’s Multicultural Center. Today, and in the coming days, it is important that we come together as a community as we offer our support to Jelani’s family and each other.
Let us remember to take care of one another, check in on one another, and convey our feelings of love or loss to those close to us.
Sincerely,
Terri Goss Kinzy
President
