Student dies in Biever Hall

Colleen Dulle

Kyra Koman, popular music freshman, was found unresponsive in her room the morning of Feb. 13 and confirmed dead on the scene by the New Orleans Coroner around 1:30 p.m.

The New Orleans Police Department is investigating the cause of death. The coroner had not yet issued his report at press time.

Koman, 19, was a native of Winchester, Massachusetts, according to an obituary published Feb. 16 in the Boston Globe.

The Rev. Kevin Wildes, S.J., university president, said in a statement that an on-campus memorial would be organized, but the music industry department held its own memorial during the department-wide forum class on Feb. 15.

At the forum memorial, Lo Faber, extraordinary professor of music industry studies, recalled how Koman, who was known for her vocal talent, sang TLC’s “Waterfalls” for a concert last semester.

“She was very nervous when she walked in, but she did it, and she pulled it off brilliantly,” Faber said. “Hearing her do it, and the way she was backed up by the rest of the ensemble, was really one of the highlights of my semester.”

Britta Erikson, music therapy junior, attended Winchester High School in Massachussets with Koman. She reflected on their time together, saying Koman would be missed.

“Kyra was a joy to be around. Not only was she one of the most talented people I have ever met, but she also was extremely kind and genuine to anyone who came her way,” Erikson said.

The Maroon was unable to reach Koman’s family for comment at press time.

Koman’s funeral was expected to be held Feb. 18 in Winchester, followed by a private burial. Shiva observance will be Feb. 20 at Temple Shir Tikvah in Winchester, according to the Boston Globe obituary.

Koman’s family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Koman’s name to the Winchester High School Music Program, 80 Skillings Road, Winchester, Mass.

Loyola University will direct all questions regarding the investigation to NOPD.