Tuskegee Univ. student dies days before graduation

TUSKEGEE, AL (WSFA) - Tuskegee University is confirming a senior who was set to graduate Saturday has died from a medical issue. Eric Marks reportedly had an asthma attack Thursday night in Tallassee.

The Flint, Michigan, native was set to graduate this weekend with a degree in Aerospace Engineering.

Marks was a UNCF and Gates Millennium Scholar, as well as the former president of the undergraduate Alpha Phi Alpha chapter (Gamma Phi). He was also a two-time winner of the President's Essay Contest.

Tuskegee officials said via the university's Facebook page that it was in direct contact with Marks' family. "Tuskegee University asks that everyone extend both their prayers and thoughts during this difficult time for his family, friends, classmates and fraternity brothers," the post read.

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