Ivy Jane Zola, an AU senior in the College of Arts and Sciences majoring in Jewish studies and music, died in her sleep Friday night in Potomac, Md., according to an e-mail Gail Hanson, vice president of campus life, sent to AU staff.
Zola, 22, died at her family's home on the 9400 block of Lost Trail Way, according to the e-mail.
Rebecca Krichinsky, who was Zola's resident assistant when Zola first transferred to AU as a sophomore, said Zola had an amazing voice, and she directed her on how to become involved in the choir at AU.
After graduating, Krichinsky obtained a job teaching at the same high school that Zola graduated from in Potomac, Md. At the funeral Tuesday, the rabbi presiding over the service mentioned that Zola died because of a reaction to medication, Krichinsky was told by funeral attendees.
"Ivy was a vibrant, lively and fun person ... when she asked how you were doing, she actually cared about the answer," Krichinsky said.
Pamela Nadell, the director of the Jewish studies program and Ivy's major adviser, recounted Ivy's bright personality.
"Ivy wedded an infectious smile and generous heart to her talents as a gifted singer and skilled horsewoman," Nadell said in an e-mail.
This past Friday, Zola told Nadell how she was looking forward to teaching choir at the Washington Hebrew Congregation where she sang, Nadell said.
"In Jewish tradition, we ask that a person's 'memory be for a blessing.' May the memory of Ivy Jane Zola be for a blessing for us all," Nadell said.
Raquel Fernandez, a senior in the School of International Service, was roommates with Zola her freshman year. Fernandez recounted by e-mail how on the first day she moved into the residence halls, Zola had left a bag of Skittles and a note welcoming her to D.C. on her desk.
"She was a wonderful, vibrant girl who could brighten anyone's day," Fernandez said. "Her passing is not only a tremendous loss to myself personally, but also to the greater community."
Marissa Tasho, a senior in the School of Communication, met Ivy on her first day of college in the math class they both took. The pair found they immediately shared a love for horseback riding.
Tasho explained via e-mail how Zola used to drive her to private riding lessons off campus. At the time, Zola told Tasho that the lessons she had with her were free because she was riding her horse and not one of the trainer's.
"I recently learned, however, she was paying for my lessons for that period of time when it was hard for me to pay, just so I could continue riding," Tasho said. "Everything she did was to make someone feel better or make someone happy. You don't find too many people like that."
Zola's friends have created an open memorial Facebook group called "In Remembrance of Ivy Jane Zola."
Zola's funeral was held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Washington Hebrew Congregation.
Following the funeral, Zola's family will observe a period of shiva - the traditional Jewish period of mourning - at their home. Shiva has been observed at their home this past Tuesday and Wednesday at 8 p.m. The last night of shiva will be held at 7:30 p.m. tonight.
Members of the AU community will also be able to remember and celebrate Zola's life at the university's Shabbat services at 6 p.m. Friday in Kay Spiritual Life Center, according to Hanson's e-mail.
