KENNESAW- On Nov. 9th, family, friends and students met at the Fischer Funeral Home to honor Mari Payero, the President of the Kennesaw Pride Alliance and well-known student leader across the campus community.
Marisol ‘Mari’ Payero, a History Education student at Kennesaw State, took her own life on Oct. 27, according to police investigations. In an email to friends and a note left for her family, Payero cited academic stress as the reason for her decision. She was 22 years old.
Mari was known for her passion as an organizer and advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusivity, but to add, for her strength as a leader and her kindness to all those who crossed her path.
During the loss of community centers during the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) program rollbacks, Mari became a leading voice among the student body, helping organize and build the foundations for the Kennesaw Pride Center at the First United Lutheran Church.
She was known as ‘the Heart and Soul of the Pride Alliance’, with many recognizing her for her efforts to unite the campus community in times of deep division and create a place of belonging.
Mari also worked with a multitude of groups, including her collaboration with the Coharie Tribe of North Carolina, Queer Spirituality, TRANScend and Polyglamorous, continuing to further the voices of diverse communities across the State of Georgia and beyond.
In her personal life, she was well-versed in a multitude of historical studies, languages and religions. She was known for her approachability and boundless kindness, while always being open to talk to students across campus. Remembered for her signature hats, dresses and memorable personality, she established a powerful presence around campus across all communities.
Mari was set to travel to Germany next month at the time of writing this article as she was enrolled in a teaching program before her passing.
Mari’s funeral was held from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with a multitude of speakers, including family and friends, who spoke of how Payero’s legacy impacted them throughout her time of being in their lives.
Amy West, who worked alongside Mari during the closures of resource centers across Kennesaw State, spoke about the emotional strength that Mari had, and her efforts to fight for marginalized communities across Campus.
“I remember back in April, when we had all of those changes that affected not just our community, but communities across campus, and we were looking for someone to guide forward, she stepped up and took that burden upon herself. No one asked her to do it. No one demanded she do it, but she took it on regardless,” West said. “…and through the last seven months, she worked tirelessly to ensure that students, teachers, her friends and family knew they were not alone.”
Mari’s kindness extended beyond her work across campus, including her kindness to her family. Multiple members of her family spoke about her goodwill, including her love for gift-giving to other family members on her own birthday. Her family defined her by her loving and gracious spirit, being known for her heartfelt and unwavering love for her family members.
“I miss you more than words can say. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’ t think about you. Your laugh, your voice, your way of making everything feel lighter,” One family member spoke. “Though your physical presence is gone, your soul continues to shine with light and love. I know you found peace in a higher place, free from pain and surrounded by warmth. You will always be a part of us, living quietly in our hearts in every moment we share.”
“Just know that I will always keep you close, always and forever. I love you.”
Rest in Peace, Mari Payero.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please know you’re not alone. If you’re a student at Kennesaw State University seeking help, please check the resources below.
The Kennesaw State Counseling Office: 470-578-6600
For immediate support: 833-646-1526
The Suicide Hotline: 988
The National Sucicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255
The Trevor Project:
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
The LGBTQ+ National Youth Talkline: 800-246-7743
Lost and Found Youth of Atlanta:
(678) 856-7824
‘She Made a Space for Everyone’: KSU Community Honors Marisol Payero
