George Washington University student William G. Gwathmey was pronounced dead on Friday. Mr. Gwathmey was found in an off-campus apartment, and the Metropolitan Police Department is investigating the cause of death.
"Willie was a blessing: full of energy, enthusiasm and zest for life. He had a big smile and even bigger heart,” the Gwathmey family said in a statement. “He was a kind and gentle spirit.”
The family also thanked the community for the huge outpouring of support, adding that Mr. Gwathmey will "live on in the minds and memories of everyone he touched."
Family members described Mr. Gwathmey as a “6-foot-2 freckle-faced New York native” who “excelled both in the classroom and on the court.”
A graduate of Collegiate School in New York, Mr. Gwathmey helped lead the high school's varsity basketball team to back-to-back state championships.
At GW, Mr. Gwathmey was studying finance and economics in the School of Business. He was also active in the university’s intermural basketball league.
In addition to his parents and his sister, Mr. Gwathmey is survived by an extended family and friends.
A service to commemorate Mr. Gwathmey’s life will be held at the Unitarian Church of All Souls on Lexington and E. 80th in New York City at 11 a.m. Wednesday.
“It’s heartbreaking to lose someone with so much life and potential ahead of them. We are deeply saddened by the death of Willie,” said Peter Konwerski, dean of student affairs. “For those affected by this tragedy, know that you are not alone. The university has resources to help you through this difficult time.”
A variety of resources are available to those members of the university community coping with this tragedy. The University Counseling Center can be reached at 202-994-5300; students who have academic concerns can reach out to their academic advisers; those who are concerned about a member of the GW community can complete a CARE Network Report form; and resources for parents are available through the Office of Parent Services at 202-994-2305.