'A true Renaissance man' — FBCS remembers principal

Students, staff, family, and community members gathered on the lawn of Forrest Bird Charter School on Thursday to celebrate the life of former Principal Eric Fulgenzi, who passed away at age 41 in July.  

“Eric was more than a colleague. He was a friend,” Holly Walker, FBCS art teacher, told the crowd. “I had the honor of working alongside Eric for 10 years, and he continued to inspire me year after year.” 

Walker remembered Fulgenzi’s “caught being kind” stickers offered to students silently brightening days and his “golden box of good,” where students and staff could report acts of goodness they witnessed. 

Walker described Fulgenzi as “a true Renaissance man, passionate about music, art, fine food, snowboarding, learning new things, and travel.” 

“He taught me to live life fully, take the trip, wear the wild shirt or pants, ride my bike, and pursue my dreams relentlessly,” Walker added. 

Above all, friends, family, and colleagues remembered Fulgenzi’s kindness as one of his most exceptional attributes. 

“If I could be so bold as to say what I think Eric would want you to know right now, I think he would say, ‘be kind to each other, that life is short, and when you hold each other up, it creates a culture where we can all thrive,’” said Kim Mlinarik, Fulgenzi’s wife. 

“I think Eric would say the best way you could honor him is to have the courage to take that one step that honors what's important to you, and be fully and uniquely yourself,” Mlinarik added. 

“The friendships he had were deep, meaningful, authentic, and real,” said Mary Jensen, FBCS executive director. “We do not have flaws in Eric's eyes. We had potential, love, and uniqueness.” 

After speakers remembered Fulgenzi’s legacy as an educator, adventurer, and friend, notes written about Fulgenzi by students earlier in the day were burned for the ashes to be added to a memorial garden near the school. 

“Eric had an enthusiasm for life that was contagious. He had an infectious goodness that was effortless for him to share,” Walker told the crowd. 

“His spirit will continue to guide us, reminding us that even small acts of goodness can have a lasting impact.” 

    Fulgenzi was remembered at the ceremony for his adventurous spirit and as a beacon of enthusiasm and kindness for students, colleagues, and the community at large.