George Zilkha Death: Vermont and Miami Communities Mourn Loss
The University of Miami community and the town of Manchester Center, Vermont, are mourning the death of George Zilkha, an undergraduate finance student whose passing over the weekend has left family, friends, and classmates deeply saddened. Zilkha, originally from Manchester Center in Bennington County, was known for his academic focus, creative online presence, and the meaningful connections he built both on and off campus.
University officials confirmed that his death is being investigated as an apparent suicide. Out of respect for the family, no further details have been released.
Zilkha was a 2023 graduate of Burr and Burton Academy, where he developed a strong interest in business and mathematics. He later enrolled at the University of Miami as a finance major and was in his third year of study. Those close to him said he was motivated and forward-thinking, with clear goals of pursuing a career in the finance industry where he could apply his analytical skills and passion for business.
Alongside his academic life, Zilkha was also well known on social media. He maintained an active presence on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, where he shared aspects of his personality, interests, and daily life. Following news of his passing, an outpouring of tributes appeared online, with friends, classmates, and followers remembering his creativity, energy, and ability to connect with people well beyond his immediate circle.
Many who paid tribute described him as intelligent, driven, and expressive—someone who balanced serious academic ambitions with an engaging and authentic online presence. Friends recalled his sense of humor, determination, and the way he inspired others through both his studies and his content.
The University of Miami extended condolences to the Zilkha family and encouraged students and faculty to support one another during this difficult time, highlighting the importance of available counseling and wellness resources. As his hometown, university community, and online followers continue to grieve, George Zilkha is being remembered for his aspirations, creativity, and the impact he had on those who knew him.
His passing has also renewed broader conversations about mental health awareness, compassion, and the importance of checking in on one another, particularly within academic environments and online communities.
