In Memory of Tom Eisner
Yesterday morning I received word that my greatest mentor, Tom Eisner, had passed quietly in his home in Ithaca, just a week and a half before I emailed him to let him know that I was thinking of him. I was not his student, though I sat in his classes.
I was not a research assistant, though we talked entomology & research. In the summer months, he taught at NYU & I traveled to the city from Cornell to work on my environmental fashion projects. When we both had time off, we would meet under a large sycamore & share a spare lunch and substantive conversation. In so many ways he was closer to me than some of my closest family members. As my other friend has recently said, “We had a special connection that defies all orthodoxy.”
My professors at Cornell knew how close we were. And that’s how the news came…by way of their emails to me…
So this is a day of remembering: A day of remembering all those that are truly special in your life & a memorial to someone who was truly monumental in mine.
My LBD: Worn as an underbust ruffle dress; vintage silk chiffon shirt & vintage saddle bag (Ebay Green Team); Emilio Cavallini plaid anklets; Isabel Toledo for Payless ballet flats; Thea Grant re-created vintage jewelry; and special Cloven Hoof Hercules beetle cameo (dedicated to Tom’s For Love of Insects) Photos: Rory
And now I will take my trip back to Cornell today where I will walk past that long corridor to his office, in memory of him…
Song that soothes: Everyday by Carly Comando.
Comments
My mentors have filled the same role (oftentimes even supplanting parents), and their departure has never been easy…Summer, your work and your life is a testament to those amazing mentors, and a legacy. I’m sure Tom was, and is, proud of the part he played in your important work. Beautiful outfit and cameo.
A long time ago
I’m sorry for your loss. I’m sure wherever Tom is now, he’s proud of what you’ve accomplished and the work you continue to do. Continue to honor his memory by carrying on your amazing journey, inspiring millions of people the way he inspired you. Good luck at your presentations tomorrow, I’ve told my friends at Cornell that they should attend.
A long time ago
A beautiful tribute to Tom.
A long time ago
Summer, I am sorry for your loss. I am sure Tom would be so very proud of you and all you have done. Part of him will always be with you.
And you look as beautiful as you are.
A long time ago
May your memories be a comfort. You look golden today. The beetle is stunning, and a whimsical item for an entomologist to wear.
A long time ago
lady, that’s one hell of a versatile dress!!!
A long time ago
My condolences. I just bought his book, looks amazing. (beautiful chiffon shirt and stag brooch!)
A long time ago
I don’t always love the pieces the EBay Green Team donates, but that shirt is a winner. Lovely.
I am sorry for your loss.
A long time ago