Members of Otterbein remember sophomore and mechanical engineering major Dillon Lanthorn. Lanthorn died Saturday, Nov. 3.
Lanthorn competed on the track and field team at Otterbein and served in the Ohio Army National Guard.
"During this time of great loss, we are reminded of the importance of community," said President John Comerford in an email on Saturday. "Losing a fellow student and a member of our university is difficult. Please compassionately support each other."
Lanthorn was enrolled in a freshman engineering course taught by professor Daniel Mendelsohn.
"He was personable, he was nice, he was there, he was attentive, paid attention and took notes," said Mendelsohn.
Lanthorn graduated from Centerburg High School in 2017, where he was a member of the wrestling and track and field teams.
Senior hurdler Brandon Shade was on the track and field team with Lanthorn. He recalled that Lanthorn was always wanting to improve his throws and personal record.
"He was just a hard worker. He was always smiling, he was really quiet, but you know it didn’t take away from how hard of a worker he was, ” said Shade.
Shade said the team is mourning the loss of Lanthorn, but knows they will overcome it.
“Dillon was just a part of the family I’d say, and I know it hurts to lose a part of the family,” said Mendelsohn.
University officials urged grieving students to contact the Counseling Center for support at 614-823-1333.
