With unbearable sadness and a focus on compassion, we must share that Zyarre Prince died by suicide on March 28, 2026. The 20-year-old vibrant sophomore at North Carolina Central University in Durham, originally from Maryland, left this world far too soon, sending shockwaves through the campus community, his family, and everyone who knew his bright, confident presence.
His sudden passing has created a profound void at NCCU, where he had already become a beloved figure known for his fashion sense, self-expression, and the way he made others feel seen and inspired. The university’s chancellor, Dr. Karrie G. Dixon, acknowledged the loss in a message to the campus, praising Zyarre’s authenticity and the positive energy he brought to every space he entered.
Zyarre was pursuing a degree in criminal justice and was widely recognized for his vibrant personality and active presence on campus. He served as “Mister Freshman” during the 2024–2025 academic year and had recently campaigned for “Mister Junior,” earning admiration for his confidence, style, and genuine desire to uplift those around him.
Students described him as someone who was always smiling, happy, dancing, and serving as a voice among his peers, someone whose passion for fashion and self-expression left a lasting impression. His involvement in campus life showed a young man who embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm and a natural leadership that made the NCCU community feel more connected and vibrant.
Originally from Maryland, Zyarre brought a fresh perspective and an open heart to his time at NCCU. He quickly became known for his ability to connect with people from all backgrounds, offering encouragement and a positive outlook that helped lift others during challenging moments.
Friends and classmates recall how he carried himself with poise and authenticity, making those around him feel valued and inspired to be their true selves. His presence on campus was a reminder of the joy and creativity that can flourish when someone lives with such unapologetic confidence and kindness.
Following the news of his passing, the NCCU community has come together in mourning while also calling for stronger mental health support on campus. A candlelight vigil was held in his honor, where hundreds of students, faculty, and staff gathered to remember Zyarre and reflect on the importance of checking in on one another.
The university has made counseling resources available, and students have emphasized the need for greater access to mental health services, turning their grief into a collective call for care and awareness so that no other student feels alone in their struggles.
As the campus and the wider community process this heartbreaking loss, loved ones and classmates are leaning on shared memories of Zyarre’s infectious energy, his passion for fashion, and the way he made every space feel brighter simply by being himself. In these early days of grief, the outpouring of tributes highlights the positive impact he had in such a short time at NCCU and the lasting impression he left through his confidence, creativity, and genuine care for others.
Zyarre Prince will be remembered as a vibrant, confident, and compassionate young man whose presence enriched the NCCU community and whose dreams and kindness touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. Though his time with us ended far too soon after he died by suicide, the authenticity, joy, and inspiration he shared continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, classmates, and the entire Eagles family, encouraging everyone to carry forward the same open-hearted spirit and self-expression that made him such a beloved part of campus life.
