Post University will hold a memorial service next week in honor of a 20-year-old student who died last week, almost three weeks after collapsing during a cross country meet.
Rob Roman, of New York, died on Thursday at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia after collapsing on Saturday, Sept. 22, according to Post University President and CEO Dr. Tom Samph.
A non-denominational memorial service in honor of Roman will be held on Monday, Oct. 15, at 6 p.m., at the United Methodist Church of Waterbury on Country Club Road. A procession will begin from the north parking lot on the Post University campus at 5:45 p.m.
The walk to the church is about half a mile, and students, faculty and staff will each be given a candle to light the way.
Roman was a business administration major in his second season with the cross country and men’s basketball programs, according to Post.
Roman was a member of the Empowering Peers Inspiring Community club and the club will be selling “Ribbons for Rob” for $2 outside the dining hall during lunch hours on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. All proceeds will be given to the Roman family.
Ribbons will also be available for purchase in the Office of Residence Life, downstairs in the Leever Center, on those days. Ribbons may be worn to Monday’s service and additional donations will also be accepted.
"He was surrounded by his family and the thoughts and prayers of the entire Post University community," Samph said in a news release.
After the 2011-12 basketball season, he was named the junior varsity men’s basketball Most Valuable Player.
“Rob was the most genuine person I have ever had the privilege to be around,” coach Justin Bourne said. “He was such a great young man. Coaches are not supposed to have favorites, but Rob was my favorite. I cannot begin to explain the impact that Rob had on my life as well as all who knew him.”
“He was a leader, and beyond that a tremendous student, athlete and most importantly a great person who was well-liked by everyone he encountered. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time,” cross country head coach William Ferrare said.
Funeral arrangements are not available.
