Drexel mourns meningitis death

Friends say Drexel University freshman Michael Skowronek will be remembered for his generosity and honesty. Skowronek, who died of meningitis last Tuesday at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, "did not have a single enemy" and was always willing to help anyone in need, Drexel freshman Rachel Rosse said. Rosse and Skowronek attended high school together in Collingswood, N.J. "You didn't ever have to impress him," Rosse said. "You didn't have to do anything but be yourself in front of him." Skowronek lived in the Kelly Hall dorm at Drexel, on a hall of about 45 students. Resident director Michelle Levy, who acts as an advisor for the residence, said she got to know Skowronek during hall government meetings. "He came to most of the meetings held once a week," Levy said. Levy added that Skowronek was always eager to assist in residence hall projects and to lend a helping hand. "He was always the person who would say 'Sure, I'll do it'," Levy said. "He wasn't the most talkative person, but he would always agree to help out." Skowronek was a member of the hall government's fundraising committee, which Drexel freshman Michelle Brooke chaired. "You could always rely on him -- I really enjoyed having him on our committee," Brooke said. "He was a very talented, sweet guy to be around. I wish I could have gotten to know him a little better." Skowronek's family and friends attended a funeral service in Collingswood, N.J. on Saturday. Drexel's Dean of Students Dianna Dale said Penn's Newman Center will hold a service in Skowronek's memory in the next few weeks. A date and time have yet to be determined. Rosse said Skowronek, a student in Drexel's Information Science and Technology program, was a "real computer whiz," who was very interested in electronic communication. She added that he was pursuing a career in a field that involved computers and interacting with people. "Michael didn't have enough time to leave a big mark on Drexel -- he was only a freshman, and had only been here a few months," Rosse said. "If he'd had more time, he would have definitely made his mark." Skowronek became ill last Monday evening and was admitted to HUP early Tuesday afternoon with symptoms of meningitis. Drexel students who might have come into close contact with Skowronek are receiving preventive treatment, Drexel spokesperson Philip Terranova said.