The Boston University community lost one of our own recently. Kyle Anthony Trotman (CAS ’11) was a Howard Thurman Center Student Ambassador and an icon for many involved in the band, orientation, and student activities. Among the many who loved him is Dean of Students Kenn Elmore, who wanted to share these words on the life and legacy of our friend Kyle:
Sometimes it snows in April
Sometimes I feel so bad, so bad
Sometimes I wish life was never ending,
And all good things, they say, never last
From Prince’s “Sometimes It Snows in April”
I don’t usually write about alumni who fly away to lands where joys will never end — I do not write personal reflections about each alumna and alumnus who passes away. I do it here because Kyle Trotman was my man.
Kyle Trotman was our quiet muse who could glide into any scene – like a cat – to be there when you needed to make sure “it got done.”
I’m not shedding any tears. Nothing wasted. Kyle lived his potential. Everyday. He did it by serving us in the traditional ways: Drumline; Orientation; Choir; mentoring; and, Thurman Center stuff. Straight up – Kyle was from around the way; a homeboy; and – most important – a friend. To make it plain, he was good peoples. He was always there to share a kind word or piece of advice. Present to lift your spirit or anything else. And, with love, he’d give you that kick in the seat of your pants, if you needed it. He knew when you needed a hug and a kiss, too. Kyle’s handshake and embrace were always wholehearted and full of substance.
Kyle always had our backs. He was my hero because he understood that life had meaning in struggles – he knew how to celebrate the struggles. I had many a deep laugh and deep conversation with Kyle – he was like that.
He could rock a bow tie.
Kyle Trotman is the epitome of Steven Ivory’s cool: charismatic dignity; virtuous patience; intelligence; and, control.
Selfishly, I will cry for Kyle because I miss him and want to see him again. I look forward to visits from our quiet muse.
All of my love to Kyle. Peace and happiness to his mother and the Trotman family. Much strength to Kyle’s friends – and those who had wonderful encounters with him – as you go forward.