She was a special education major in the College of Education at the time of her death. According to a Dayton Daily News article, she had been diagnosed with combined immune deficiency as a 2-year-old and was forced to leave Ohio University in January 2008 after becoming ill. 

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Kari, who was tremendously talented student in our Special Education program," said College of Education Dean Renee A. Middleton. "She wanted to work with autistic children one day, and her teachers and advisers have all noted her dedication, perseverance and strength through very difficult times. She will be missed dearly by both the college and university communities, and our thoughts and prayers go out to her family, friends and loved ones."

According to her obituary* in the Sept. 6 Dayton Daily News, McSwiney had served as a kindergarten teacher at Beavercreek Christian Learning Center and volunteered at a juvenile detention center as a teen. While at Ohio University, she worked at the Ping Recreation Center and was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, an international education honors society.

"Kari was a model advisee who demonstrated all the qualities we try and nurture in future special education teachers," said Ohio University Associate Professor of Teacher Education Marta Roth, who served as McSwiney's academic adviser. "Her positive energy, persistence, and passion lead me to only imagine the numbers of lives she may have touched and changed for the better."

Students are reminded that they can call Counseling and Psychological Services 24 hours a day/seven days a week at 740-593-1616 to speak with a counselor. Walk-in hours are available at the center in Hudson Hall from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

"We are deeply saddened by this loss," said Dean of Students Ryan Lombardi. "Our thoughts go out to Kari's family and friends."

-- George Mauzy