HOLLAND, Mich. (WJW) — A college student from Bay Village was reportedly hit by a train and died Saturday night, the president of Michigan’s Hope College confirmed on social media.
Jennifer Kasunick was with her service animal when the incident occurred near 10th Street in Holland, Michigan, President Matt Scogin wrote in the post.
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“Almost everyone on campus knew Jennifer. And to know her was to love her. Her joyful spirit was a constant source of warmth and light – especially in Phelps Hall, where she served as an RA alongside her service dog Rowdy, who survived,” the post said.
Photo courtesy Bay Village City School District/Facebook
Police have not yet released details of what took place.
Kasunick was an active member on campus and was also a part of the college orchestra, where she played violin (which she learned to play by ear). In April, Kasunick was nominated for an Accessibility Awareness Award, with Hope College Disability and Accessibility Resources writing the following on Instagram:
“Jennifer’s positive presence on campus has challenged people’s misconceptions about blindness and has proven that her blindness, in many aspects, enriches her capabilities as a student, friend, and resident.”
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Bay Village City School District Superintendent Scot Prebles sent out a letter to school families Sunday letting them know the news, which said in part:
It is with great sadness that I must inform you that we have lost a dear member of our school
district family. Recent alumna, Jennifer Kasunick, a Bay High 2023 graduate, has died due to an
unimaginable accident; she was struck by a train yesterday near her beloved Hope College in
Holland, Michigan. Her service dog Rowdy survived the accident. Please keep Jennifer’s family
and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this tragic time.
Bay High School Principal Jason Martin also remembered Kasunick fondly.
“There was nothing she couldn’t do if she put her mind to it,” he said in a statement. “Her passion for learning and ‘I can’ mentality served as an inspiration for staff and students, alike. Jennifer’s presence, energy and positivity will always be remembered. My thoughts are with her family, friends and fellow Class of 2023 graduates.”
Counseling services will be available to students at Hope College and Bay High School this week.
Check back for updates on this developing story.
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