Fordham University mourns the untimely death of former student athlete Nicole Ayres at the age of 22.
“This is a shocking and terrible loss,” said Joseph M. McShane, S.J., president of Fordham. “I cannot imagine the grief Nicole’s family must be feeling today, a grief intensified by the death of someone so young. Today the University community’s hearts and prayers are with Nicole’s family, friends and loved ones.
Ayres, a native of Westville, New Jersey, attended Fordham for two years. She played softball for two seasons, joining the team as a freshman in 2007, and was an award-winning athlete. She came to Fordham after a successful career at Deptford High School in New Jersey, and was well-liked by her classmates and teammates.
“We are absolutely stunned to hear about Nicole. It’s a sad day for us and the players who knew her. Our prayers and thoughts go out to her family and friends in this extremely difficult time,” said Fordham softball head coach Bridget Orchard, who coached Ayres for the 2007 and 2008 seasons.
Counseling is available through Counseling and Psychological Services in the basement of O’Hare Hall: (718) 817-3725, or by calling Campus Ministry at (718) 817-4500.Students may also contact their resident assistant or resident director for assistance.
