On Dec. 16, Eastern 2008 graduate Michael Anthony Skinner, Jr. was killed in a car accident on the Girard Point Bridge in Philadelphia. The news devastated the Eastern community, much of which was close to Mike. A week after his death, hundreds showed up to Mike’s memorial service, which was held in West Philadelphia.
Mike, known at Eastern as “Ski,” touched the lives of many with his warm smile, loving friendship and exuberant spirit. As a three-year RA, Mike served the community in a personal way.
In 2008, he was voted both Homecoming King and Mr. Eastern. Several who spoke at Mike’s memorial service remarked that many considered Mike “their best friend.”