Tributes from SEL

In remembrance of Andrew Amuna

Dear Amuna Family,

My wife Beatriz and I are devastated to learn of the loss of your son Andrew. As parents ourselves, we can only imagine the tremendous sorrow you are experiencing. Andrew made a real mark on our company in a short time, modeling what it is to be a kind and supportive colleague, an insightful engineer, and a good friend. When a person that talented and good is with us even for a short time, the impact is lasting. We will keep Andrew in our hearts and prayers.

Sincerely,

-Dr. Ed Schweitzer, SEL President and CTO, and

-Mrs. Beatriz Schweitzer, SEL Director of Community Outreach

To the Amuna family, please accept my personal condolences for the loss of your son and brother. Andrew was with SEL for a relatively short time, but as both an extraordinary human and engineer, he touched many lives. Andrew’s colleagues have shared with many of us that what made Andrew special was his connection to other people. As engineers, sometimes we struggle with that, but clearly Andrew set an example for us all of how to put people first. We will continue to honor Andrew’s memory and the positive impact he had on our SEL Family.

Sincerely,

-Dave Whitehead

-SEL CEO

Dear Amuna Family,

I was blessed to meet your son Andrew when he entered our rotation engineer program. He struck me with his bright smile and charm. In the past week, I have come to know this remarkable young man even more through the words and stories of others. I feel honored that he was part of our SEL family. My heart goes out to you and pray for you to find peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

-Stacey Doty

-SEL Senior Vice President of Human Resources

Dear Amuna Family,

Our whole SEL family is so saddened by Andrew’s death. While I didn’t have the opportunity to meet Andrew personally, I knew of his kindness, academic success, engineering talents and warm personality from many colleagues. We were so lucky to have Andrew as our coworker. Please, know that I’m thinking of your family and that Andrew left a permanent, positive mark on our company.

-Stephanie Schweitzer

-SEL Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications

I had just met Andrew through the rotation program here in Pullman. He was a friendly face in my first couple weeks and organized “DJ of the week” for the rotation program engineers where we share songs with one another each day. This was one of the highlights of starting my job, thanks to Andrew and something we will all carry forward in his honor. 

– Cameron Blegen, Associate Engineer

You are in my prayers!!

– Tallita Generoso, Accountant

Spanish: descance en paz, mis condolencias a su familia

Translated: rest in peace, my condolences to your family.

 – Jose Roberto Cebrian, Senior Security Operator

I got to know Andrew as an intern who was willing to share his experiences with students considering applying to SEL. He was authentic, thoughtful, funny, and welcoming. Everyone who connected with him remembered him and his smile. His passion and kindness were inspiring, and he truly made an impact on everyone he encountered. I will always remember how humble he was when speaking of his successes, and his joy of sharing with others. I will not forget his smile, his laugh, and his thoughtful heart.

 – Lisa Latronica, Associate Program Manager

Andrew was kind, friendly, and thoughtful, he will be missed dearly. To the Amuna family, I am deeply sorry for the loss of your son and brother. May he rest in peace.

– Thomas Morrell, Project Engineer II

I got a chance to meet Andrew for the first time at the UNCC career fair, and right away, his smile and attitude caught my eye. I recognized him as being Fred’s younger brother and we chatted about SEL, and I’m not sure if I’ve ever met someone more excited about the possibility to work with SEL.  In January of 2021, I got the chance to start mentoring Andrew on a daily basis here in the Charlotte office for the Engineering Rotation Program, and what a great guy to work with! 

Inquisitive, asked good questions, could take a little snippet of something and go off and teach himself nearly anything.  We would do weekly “cross training” sessions where, as a protection guy, I tried to show him how the automation side of the coin played a role in protecting power systems. 

I got a chance to attend NC Meter School with him this year, and in his very first conference presentation, I could see he was a natural teacher and loved the work.  We bonded over mutual love of West African musician Fela Kuti.  He was excited to be a taster next time we did our Charlotte Office Chili Cookoff.  Just 2 weeks ago I got a chance to expose him to the incredible taco place down the street from the SEL office.  When anyone asked how Andrew was doing, I didn’t have to exaggerate when I said “he’s going to be a great Application Engineer one day.”  I’m going to miss him.

– Andy Gould, Application Engineer III

As a new AE (Application Engineer), I got to spend a few days in Alpharetta, GA office where I met Andrew. We quickly became good friends. Andrew introduced me to something that soon became my favorite snack—”Butter short breads”.  He was full of positive energy and would have made a great AE.

– Osama Ansari, Associate Application Engineer

Andrew attended a Friday dance event that I privately hosted this recently. He was bright, energetic, and very willing to jump in with both feet to try something new. He was incredibly kind, gentle, and determined to grow in learning more. He will be thoroughly missed, and reminds us to be grateful for what moments we do have with those we love and value.

– Brendan Souvenir, Software Engineer

Words cannot even begin to express our sorrow. Please accept my deepest condolences for your family’s loss.

– Arturo Miranda, Application Engineer II

While Andrew was working in Charlotte with us, our group took turns playing “”DJ”” for the week. Each week the designated DJ would send out a YouTube link to a song that they wanted to share with the group. Andrew’s song picks were always positive, happy and encouraging, just like his personality. Andrew’s final selection on Friday was the song, “”Jerusalema””. He shared the @LK_3.0 instagram version of it with us. I messaged him later that day to thank him for sharing that encouragement with us all, and told him how much these words in particular spoke to me as a believer…

“My place is not here,

My kingdom is not here,

Rescue me!”

Andrew replied, “Amen!”

– David Dyer, Technical Support Representative

I didn’t work with Andrew personally but he recently joined our team and I saw his last update for what he had worked on. I was so excited to start working with him, but it’s really sad and unfortunate that he is no longer with us. I offer my deepest condolences to his family and friends. I know it can be very difficult. May he rest in peace and I pray to God to give his family and friends strength to bear this profound loss. Andrew will always be remembered and loved. 

– Sajal Harmukh, Lead Power Engineer

He always had a smile on his face when he greeted you. I wish I had gotten to know him better, but my few encounters with him were always memorable.

– Sean Zilberdrut, Project Engineer II

I saw all of his posts through being a connection with him on LinkedIn. Seeing the many accomplishments he posted and the kind words he expressed with others was always amazing. It seemed like he truly loved what he did, and the passion showed through his smile. It’s great to see how much he accomplished throughout his life and I know that through this time, there will be nothing but amazing support from hundreds to thousands of people for him and his family. 

– Makenna Bruck, Recruiting Coordinator

There were many things I found I have in common with Andy.  I felt so proud when I saw him giving that commencement speech at UNNC. I, also, come from another country looking for better conditions and opportunities for me and my family. I think that was the first thing I liked about him. He was here doing his best, learning, and growing and being so proud of his origins. All those things inspired me and reminded me of a younger me and the reason I’m here in this country.

Even when I didn’t work with Andy directly, it was very nice to chat with him when our paths crossed. He would stop for a moment, looked at me in the eye and asked me” Edgar, how are you?” The level of respect he showed to anyone, made others to respect him.

He truly was an example of a great human being.  I’ll keep the family in my thoughts and prayers.

God bless you all.

 – Edgar Torres, Lead Sales Engineer

I didn’t get to spend a lot of time with Andrew, but when I did get to work with him, he was always so happy. Andrew was always smiling and laughing, even while learning difficult topics. Andrew was eager to learn and such a thankful and kind person. On his last day with our group, he reached out to me to thank me for the time that I spent teaching him and explaining things with him on the phone. It was a very sweet and thoughtful gesture. I’m so sorry for your loss. 

– Jessica Hatton, Application Engineer I

I am so sorry for your loss. My heart and prayers are with you. 

– Shana Delson, Administrative Assistant

I’ve worked with Andrew on a few projects as his editor. He was one of the nicest authors I’ve ever worked with. He was very kind in all of his comments and always showed an abundance of gratitude towards others. I’m praying God blesses your family with peace during this really difficult time.

– Larai Breithaupt, Marketing Editor

Andrew always had a smile for EVERYONE! He was so happy, always, and his joy and happiness spread like ripples on the water, and lifted each person he met. He was a pleasure to know, to be around with, to have around. He is definitely missed.

– Michael Affronte, Project Engineer II

I only had one interaction with Andrew but I knew he was a special young man. Andrew was highlighted in an internal company article. The article sited a news outlet in Ghana, which wrote about his accomplishments. I was so moved by the article that I reached out to Andrew to let him know. Andrew was so kind and humble. I could just imagine the young boys and girls who read the news and found inspiration in his story.

 I believe that the ripple effect of Andrew’s life will never be tangibly measured. He impacted so many people near and far. From coworkers, to friends, to strangers who found hope in his journey. I am deeply saddened for this tremendous loss. I find comfort knowing that his life was a source of hope and inspiration for many and that his legacy will live on forever.

– Theresa Soto, Regional Business Manager

I am so sorry for the loss of Andrew. Sending your family all the thoughts and prayers that can be mustered. His smile and energy will never be forgotten. 

– Nikita Kinnaman, Lead Administrative Assistant

Andrew was so kind and humble. I will keep the family in my prayers.  So sorry for the loss.  May the lord comfort you all during this time.  

– Shaneena Kinnard, Panel Assembler I

Andrew started a DJ of the week email thread for the ERP that has been very well received. His love of music was as strong as his intelligence in electrical systems. Multiple times did he contact me about projects that I was working on (unsolicited) to check on my progress and offer help. It was always welcome since he came with a soft hand of experience paired with helpful curiosity. Genuinely a treasure of a person. He will be missed dearly.

– Andrew Rossiter, Associate Engineer

I am praying for you all, and for Andrew. May his memory be eternal. May God receive him into His everlasting arms and comfort your hearts with peace.

– Luke Nieuwsma, Software Engineering Technician II

I never had the opportunity to meet Andrew but losing him is a significant loss to the SEL community. My sincerest condolences as I keep your family in my thoughts.

– Candie Politte, Assembler

I am so very sorry for the loss of Andrew.  We didn’t get much of one-on-one time together, but I can offer one lasting moment he shared with me, just randomly out of the blue.  He noticed that he and I shared the same birthday, June 11, so he sent me a message noting his finding of that in a SEL monthly newsletter, and then he and I chatted a little while about our roles here at SEL.  Then sure enough on June 11, he sent me best wishes for my birthday, and I replied back to him with Happy Birthday as well.  At this stage of my life, a birthday just rolls by every year and we all grumble about getting older.  I think my birthday will now forever spring a fond memory of this fine young man. God Bless you, Andrew and the Family. 

Sincerely,

Scott Rogers, Application Engineer III

I was trying to imagine Andrew’s face without a smile. I just couldn’t do it, honestly. I have never seen him without a smile. The respect and love and appreciation I received from him, I will always cherish. He would go out of his way and come and find me in the office and say, “Hey Umair, just wanted to see how you were doing.” The first few times, I asked him if he needed something, but soon I realized he sincerely just wanted to say “Hey” with his signature big and bright smile.

He found out from somewhere when my birthday was, and then remembered to come to me a day before to wish me a Happy Birthday. I never forgot that, I never will.

You have raised two wonderful boys in Andrew and Fred. And if, God willing, I get the chance to meet you all, I would love to express in-person how grateful I am to have known Andrew.

May your family find peace and comfort knowing that your son has touched so many hearts, and is loved, remembered, and cherished by so many people. 

– Umair Qureshi, Project Engineer III

Amuna family – I did not know Andrew but just wanted to reach out to let you know that I am heartbroken to hear of your loss. I cannot imagine the pain you are experiencing during this time. My deepest condolences to you all. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. 

– Brendelyn Graham, Recruiter I

Andrew was a person who lifted everyone’s spirits when we were around him. I first met him when I got the opportunity to teach a class with him at SEL and had gotten to know him well after that. He was always positive and energetic, and it was impossible not to feel his energy when you were with him. He was a great guy, who will be dearly missed by everyone. I offer my deepest condolences to the family, and I hope that the love and affection from people around you, as well as the cherished memories you have had with Andrew, help you in this difficult time. 

– Gautham Ashokkumar, Application Engineer II

I met Andrew approximately three weeks ago to discuss what he would like to work on while he was doing his rotation in R&D. He struck me as someone very motivated to learn and someone who wanted to contribute and make a difference in this world. I was looking forward to having him in R&D and seeing him grow and learn.

I would like to offer my condolences to the family and friends.

– Normann Fischer, Distinguished Engineer

May fond memories of Andrew bring you all comfort during this hard time in your life. My heart and prayers go out to the family. God’s love and grace are always with you all.

– Clement Abogidi, Project Engineer I

I never interacted with Andrew, but I know so many people from my school, church and community who knew him as we have many mutual friends together. And he impacted and helped every single one of them one way or another. From the stories I heard, he was an amazing person who was on his way to do great things. In the words of one of such friends when she thought of Andrew, she immediately thought of a future president of Ghana. We have lost a genius and I pray the family is comforted.

Rest in Perfect Peace, Andy. 

– Nelly Martinson, Customer Service Representative I

Andrew and I shared the same start date in Charlotte as interns! We would run into each other at the clock-in machines while he interned for Engineering Services and I was an Application Engineer intern. We would laugh about how odd it was that we would come in at the exact same time. When he joined the rotation program, he joined our division for a few months, and everyone loved having him on our team! He was so knowledgeable and kind!

I got to spend a few days with him in Alpharetta in early June 2021. Kwasi and Andrew made a joke while the team was at the park kicking a soccer ball around, that Andrew was possibly one of the only people in Ghana who could not do soccer tricks. Andrew was so excited to go to new places and learn new things.

A small part of the S&CS southeast region did a weekly music rotation to get to know each other better and get song recommendations. I could tell from Andrew’s emails that he loved his family and music.

I’m glad I got to meet Andrew, and he will always be in our hearts.

– Pilar Vilches, Associate Application Engineer

A part of me is still waiting for his regular check-ins to see how my project on the 651R is going or whether I checked out some logic examples he sent me. I have known Andrew for more than 5years, since his days at Bridge Power  and his positive attitude was just infectious. This has hit hard and I just wish Ing Amuna, mummy and the entire family my deepest condolences. I pray you find peace and comfort in the fact that Andrew made good impact. 

– Kwasi Opoku, Application Engineering Intern

To Andrew’s loved ones, I am so heartbroken for the loss you are experiencing. Although, I had the honor of only meeting Andrew briefly virtually and in-person, it was immediately clear how special of a person he was. He will be truly missed by those lucky enough to have him in their lives – no matter the duration. Please know you are in my thoughts and I hope you are able to find some comfort in all of the memories created with Andrew during this difficult time.

With love,

Rachel Vyhnanek, Customer Service Representative II

The quote, “People won’t remember what you said, but they’ll remember how you made them feel” comes to mind when I think of Andrew. He was so intentional with his words, giving with his smile and could make people feel cared for and heard, even through a video call. I had the pleasure of helping in his Onboarding class and a few intern events. We did not interact daily but, wow, he was a joy to be around with. I am deeply sorry for your loss. Please, know that his influence spread far around our company and we are all better because we were fortunate enough to meet him. 

– Kelsey Cummings, Program Administrator

Though I didn’t get the opportunity to work alongside Andrew and get to know him better, the Southeast Team shared one of his emails with one of his DJ Mbabi selections.  He included how children are named in Ghana and included an upcoming Ghana artist’s music.  He blessed us with this information!  Sharing music and culture with others brings education and awareness through love.  Andrew was obviously a very, special person!  I’m so sorry for your loss.  I hope you have many memories to share with one another in celebration of his life.  

– Ashley Chambers, Customer Service Representative I

It’s been only a year, Andrew and I met through a mutual friend. Despite, never meeting in person we have stayed in constant touch with each other over the phone talking for hours as though we had known each other from childhood.

Andrew was a great friend, a brother who was quick to share and transfer knowledge and he would always tell me how he wanted to go on to become a Product Engineer upon the completion of his Rotation Program. It’s saddening this dream and our plan of meeting in person will not come to fruition, but I take solace in that the time I have spent knowing him will be forever memorable and cherished.

He will be sorely Missed. Rest In Peace Andrew.

– Oyeyemi Akinniranye, Associate Project Engineer

Andrew recently attended a new employee class that I taught. He had a smile that lights up the room and was very engaged, kind, and thoughtful in all of his interactions. I was just getting to know him better and excited to have him join the Pullman team. I am very sad of the most recent news of Andrew’s passing and extend my sincerest condolences to his family, friends, co-workers. He touched many lives and will not be forgotten.

– Janet Bell, Executive Assistant

May the good Lord console the entire family!

– Joshua Adaramola, Assembler

I’m so sorry for your loss, Fred. There are no words that will lessen the pain you are feeling, speaking from experience of losing my own younger brother. Andrew was a great friend and inspired me and many others with his positivity and intelligence. Sharing an internship experience with Andrew, we challenged each other to learn more and more, and he kept in touch even after I returned to school. I will miss Andrew and his friendship, and I hope that you and your family find the support you need to begin to move forward. Please, take care of yourself.

– Connor Kidd, Associate Project Engineer

For every time Andrew was in the office, he brought with him a breath of warmth that no one could match. A smile was perpetually presented as was the desire to at least greet you every day. It was shocking sometimes how good of a mood he could be in just coming in to work. Even when leaving for the day, he made sure to do a round and say goodbye to everyone. Often, if it was the weekend, we would at a minimum get into a conversation about what was coming up, what plans were, etc. He was a genuine man, and it’s absolutely shocking and horrific that he’s gone. He was like no other and he will be deeply, deeply missed…

– Cameron Sanders, Technical Support Representative

I cannot imagine what pain your family is going through, but, please, know that we all are here grieving with you.  Andrew was a wonderful person who had such a warm personality.  He was kind and gentle with others, and always greeted everyone with his sweet smile.  He was always willing to help others, and seemed very determined to be the best person he could be.  You should be very proud of the wonderful son and brother that he was.  I am a better person for having the privilege of knowing him for just a short time.  You all are constantly in my thoughts and prayers.

– Frannie Morrison, Regional Business Manager

I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the Amuna family. While I did not work with Andrew, I have worked with his brother Fred on many occasions. From what I knew about Andrew through Fred, he seemed to be destined to do great things with his life and career. I can only hope that he is in a better place and the Amuna family can cherish his memory.

 – Justin McDevitt, Senior Engineer

Although our offices were in different states, Andrew had a way of making me feel we were good friends. I am the region’s administrative assistant, and anything I needed from Andrew he responded immediately. Our region was compiling videos of everyone’s “unusual talents,” and Andrew sent me a video of him making car sounds. I’ll always cherish it. I am so sorry for your loss. He touched so many lives in the short time he was with SEL. God bless.

– Mary Thomas, Administrative Assistant

I cannot think of a kinder, more genuine human being that I have ever met than Andrew. I loved talking with him because he was always so passionate about anything that he was learning, working on, or was looking forward to. My favorite memory of Andrew is when I asked for his help loading some equipment onto a trailer. With anyone else, this would have been a chore I would have long forgotten by now. With Andrew it became a memory. I remember laughing, telling stories, and feeling silly trying to figure out how to use a tool together. It became a great afternoon solely due to Andrew being such a wonderful and charismatic person. I have no doubt that he left the same shining impression on every soul he ever met. 

– Mike Adamson, Project Engineer

Andrew would walk down the hallways of the Charlotte office with the biggest smile. He was so kind and thoughtful. He always took the time to say hello. He made a huge impact on so many people and was truly a bright light. Please, know that even though his life was shorter than we all hoped, he left such a positive impression on so many people. We can only pray that the rest of us can make the type of impact that he did in this world. Thank you for sharing him with us. He will never be forgotten!

– Brandy Carter, Human Resources Manager

Dear Amuna Family, As I have talked to those who knew Andrew, I have realized that I don’t think any of us can truly capture in words the impact that Andrew had on everyone around him. As our employees articulate in these notes and memories who he was and how he touched their lives, it is so clear that he was special beyond words. I am thinking and praying for your family during this very difficult time.

– Melissa Underwood, Senior Human Resources Director