An Ohio University student studying special education and dance died in a car accident Sunday.
Senior Gloria Dawes, 22, from Adena, Ohio, was involved in a fatal crash on I-77, near Byesville, in Guernsey County. At about 4:15 p.m. the car she was driving crossed through the median and was struck by a car being driven by Ronald J Stemberger, 51, of Garfield Heights, Ohio, according to the crash report.
She died at the scene as a result of the injuries sustained in the crash. Her passenger, 23-year-old Ryan Payne, an OU graduate, was transported to Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center and later to Grant Medical Center in Columbus with serious injuries.
OU officials say they learned of the accident yesterday.
“Our hearts and thoughts go out to the family; it is a tragedy,” said Kent Smith, OU’s vice president of Student Affairs.
Dean of Students Ryan Lombardi said the university would contact Gloria’s family soon to send condolences.
“Her dream was to use dance to reach out to sick children and to travel,” said Gloria’s mother, Shelley Dawes.
“She loved OU and was so excited to start this year.”
Gloria began studying at West Virginia University.
“She came down to visit (OU) and loved the adventure and excitement of OU … loved it all,” Shelley said.
“She was a very adventurous person and liked the opportunity to meet so many other people,” she added.
Gloria was a member and vice president of the Student Council for Exceptional Children, as well as a member of OU’s chapter of Sigma Alpha Lambda, a national leadership and honors organization.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday at St. Adalbert Church, Dillonvale, Ohio.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation, according to
the report.
Memorial contributions can be sent to the Gloria Dawes Dance Scholarship Fund, c/o Oglebay Institute Dance Dept., 1330 National Rd., Wheeling, WV 26003.
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