FIU celebrates Professor Moses Shumow’s life

Professor Moses Shumow left a significant mark on Florida International University. His documentaries, teaching, and empathy shaped the lives of both students and community members throughout South Florida. He died last week at age 42 when a commuter train struck the bike he was riding in Beverly, Massachusetts.

On Thursday afternoon, the FIU College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts (CARTA) held an emotional memorial at FIU’s Biscayne Bay Campus ballrooms with faculty, staff, students and alumni in attendance.

Among those who spoke were CARTA Dean Brian Schriner and Teresa Ponte, chair of the Department of Journalism and Media.

Attendees were welcomed to the somber but heartfelt ceremony with a portrait of Dr. Shumow, yellow tulips and a memory book. Students, staff and guests from across the region eagerly waited to speak about to Dr. Shumow’s memory.

A projector played a slideshow of photos of the professor while those in attendance conversed, grabbed a bite and waited for the ceremony to begin. A video by FIU students was also shown.

SFMN honors the life of Professor Moses Shumow. A GoFundme page for his family has raised $67,000 so far.

Dave J. Fair, a transfer student from the University of Colorado, is pursuing a dual major in Digital Communication and Media and Information Technology with a focus on cybersecurity at Florida International University. Dave is passionate about the outdoors and committed to raising awareness about preserving our national parks. He enjoys rock climbing, hiking, and creating video content showcasing his adventures. As Vice President of FIU’s National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), he supported aspiring Hispanic media professionals and fostered community engagement.

Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Monica is working on her broadcast journalism bachelor's degree. She loves to write and is passionate about sports, the art of interviewing and strives to become an on-air sports talent. She produces digital content and is a social media manager.