Michael Lenetsky, chemistry, died Friday morning in Baker Laboratory “during a medical emergency,” according to an email sent to the College of Arts and Sciences faculty and staff members from Peter Loewen, dean of arts and sciences.
Lenetsky served as a senior department manager for the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology for over 14 years and has spent 25 total years at Cornell. He was a key part of organizing research initiatives and served as a strategic advisor to the Abruña Energy Initiative. Lenetsky also played a crucial role in the department’s administrative responsibilities, including budget planning and research funding. Additionally, Lenetsky was the academic advisor for Sigma Alpha Mu, also known as “Sammy”.
“A natural problem-solver and a stalwart in the college, he was beloved by his colleagues,” Loewen wrote in the Friday email. “He was also an avid fly fisherman and loved the Grateful Dead.”
Lenetsky is survived by his partner, Rebekah Puhlman, and his three children.
The news comes amid the death of Joselyn Guadalupe Garcia ’29, a student enrolled in arts and sciences, which was also announced on Friday.
The University plans to hold a support meeting at 5 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 22, in G28 Lewis Auditorium, Goldwin Smith Hall for the arts and sciences community. A full Cornell community support meeting is scheduled at 7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 22, in 404 Willard Straight Hall, the Browsing Library.
“Everyone grieves differently and we urge all members of our community to care for yourselves and each other,” Loewen wrote in an email statement.
Individuals can have a diverse range of feelings, needs and reactions when facing loss. This information about Grief and Loss may be helpful to you or a friend. The Ithaca-based crisisline can be reached at 607-272-1616, and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available throughout the U.S. Additional support resources are listed at mentalhealth.cornell.edu
Students in need of professional support can email Student Support and Advocacy Services at studentsupport@cornell.edu or call Counseling and Psychological Services at 607-255-5155. Employees can call the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program at 607-255-2673.
Zeinab Faraj is a member of the class of 2028 in the College of Arts and Sciences. She is the features editor on the 143rd Editorial Board and was the assistant sports editor of the 143rd Editorial Board. You can reach her at zfaraj@cornellsun.com.
