A fond farewell to John David Fernandez

To the editor:

We were shocked and deeply saddened to read of the recent passing of John David Fernandez. While we never had the pleasure of meeting David in person, we were, in our capacities as opinion editors, privileged to work closely with him throughout last semester on his various contributions to the opinion page.
David was a brilliant thinker and gifted writer. He provided incisive and intelligent perspectives on the major issues of our campus, applying a libertarian perspective to the proposed smoking ban, same-sex marriage, and most recently, Columbia’s expansion into Manhattanville. He consistently provoked thought and constructive debate, and he inspired us with his endless enthusiasm and passion.

David’s passing is a devastating loss to this newspaper and this campus. He is in our thoughts and prayers, and we join the campus community in conveying our deepest condolences to his friends and family.

Shira Borzak, BC ’12
Amin Ghadimi, CC ’12