Category: News

Joshua Cobo Obituary, Bel Air, MD: The world lost a truly special soul on Thursday, April 10, 2025, when Joshua Cobo, a talented analyst at NextEra Energy Resources, passed away unexpectedly. He was just beginning to carve out a bright future, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, intelligence, and unwavering kindness.

Born and raised in Bel Air, Maryland, Josh was a proud alumnus of C. Milton Wright Senior High School, where his leadership and compassion left a lasting impression on classmates and teachers alike. He carried his Bel Air roots with him wherever he went, never forgetting the community that helped shape him into the man he became.

Josh went on to study finance at Coastal Carolina University, where he was not only a dedicated student but also a loyal friend and a constant source of support to his peers. His passion for numbers and business strategy was matched only by his love for people. Whether it was tutoring a struggling classmate, organizing a study group, or offering a listening ear during tough times, Josh was always there — a steady, uplifting presence.

His professional journey led him to NextEra Energy Resources, where he quickly earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues. As an analyst, Josh combined sharp analytical skills with a heart full of integrity. He was known not just for his talent but for his humility, work ethic, and the genuine care he showed toward others in the workplace. His potential was limitless, and those who had the privilege of working alongside him knew they were in the company of someone truly special.

But beyond the titles and accomplishments, Josh was so much more — a beloved son, a loyal friend, and a light in the lives of everyone who knew him. His laugh was infectious, his smile sincere, and his presence calming. He had an uncanny ability to make anyone feel seen and valued, even on their worst days.

In this time of immense grief, his family, friends, and coworkers are united in remembering not just what Josh achieved, but who he was: a bright, gentle soul who made the world better simply by being in it.

Though his time was far too short, the impact Joshua Cobo made will echo in the hearts of those who loved him for years to come. His memory will forever be cherished — not just for what he did, but for the beautiful way he lived.

Rest in peace, Josh. You will always be loved and never forgotten. Joshua Cobo’s funeral arrangements soon

 

Amy Engelbrecht-Wiggans Rochester NY Obituary: RIT Professor Dr. Amy Engelbrecht-Wiggans Tragically Passes Away

Rochester, NY — The Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and the broader academic community are mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Dr. Amy Engelbrecht-Wiggans, an assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at RIT’s Kate Gleason College of Engineering. Dr. Engelbrecht-Wiggans passed away on the night of April 9, 2025, in an unforeseen incident that has left her colleagues, students, and loved ones devastated.

A native of Rochester, New York, Dr. Engelbrecht-Wiggans had a profound impact on both the academic and local communities through her work, mentorship, and commitment to advancing engineering education and research.

Dr. Engelbrecht-Wiggans joined RIT in the fall of 2021, following a distinguished academic path. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics from the University of Illinois in 2011. She went on to complete her Ph.D. at Cornell University in 2017, where she continued her focus in theoretical and Applied Mechanics. Prior to joining RIT, she completed postdoctoral research at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), further establishing her reputation as a meticulous and passionate researcher.

Her work at RIT focused on the long-term reliability of continuous fiber materials, with an emphasis on understanding and predicting the failure behavior of large-scale composites over time. Her research aimed to bridge the gap between laboratory-scale material testing and real-world engineering applications, with implications for critical industries such as aerospace, automotive, and civil infrastructure.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Engelbrecht-Wiggans was known as a dedicated educator, mentor, and colleague who inspired students with her intellect, empathy, and unwavering support. She played an active role in shaping the next generation of engineers, earning admiration for her thoughtful approach to teaching and her deep investment in student success.

In a statement released by RIT, colleagues expressed their sorrow:

“Amy was not only a brilliant scholar and researcher, but a kind and thoughtful presence in our college. Her passion for teaching and dedication to her students were evident in everything she did. Her loss is a tremendous one, and she will be deeply missed.”

Details surrounding the incident are still emerging, and out of respect for the family’s privacy, RIT has stated that further information will be shared as it becomes available. Counseling services have been made available on campus for students, faculty, and staff affected by this heartbreaking loss.

Dr. Engelbrecht-Wiggans’ legacy will live on through the countless students she taught, the research she pioneered, and the lives she touched both in and outside the classroom.

If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, stress, or mental health, resources are available:

• RIT Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): rit.edu/studentaffairs/counseling
• Lifeline (Monroe County): Call 211 or text HELPLINE to 898211
• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (available 24/7)