The Students on Ice (SOI) Alumni Community is profoundly saddened as it mourns the recent passing of two beloved alumni, Joshua Komangapik and Brandon Pardy. Their deaths have left a deep void within the SOI family, as well as among their own families, friends, and communities. Both young men were vibrant participants in their respective Arctic expeditions and are remembered for the passion, leadership, and warmth they brought to those transformative journeys.
Joshua Komangapik, a participant in the 2018 Arctic Expedition, is being remembered as a kind-hearted soul and a promising young leader. During his time with Students on Ice, Joshua stood out for his enthusiasm, humility, and strong connection to his culture and homeland. His presence on the expedition was a source of inspiration for his peers. He carried himself with quiet confidence and a deep respect for the Arctic environment that shaped him.
Those who traveled alongside Joshua recall his thoughtful insights during discussions about climate change, Indigenous knowledge, and environmental stewardship. He spoke with sincerity about the importance of protecting the North and preserving cultural traditions for future generations. His ability to bridge traditional knowledge with contemporary environmental conversations left a lasting impression on fellow participants and educators alike. Joshua’s light shone brightly on the expedition, and his legacy continues in the lives he touched.
Brandon Pardy, who participated in the 2017 and 2018 Arctic Expeditions, is also being fondly remembered as an energetic and engaged member of the SOI community. Brandon embraced the spirit of exploration and learning that defines the Students on Ice experience. His curiosity, sense of adventure, and openness to new perspectives enriched the journeys he was part of.
Friends and expedition teammates describe Brandon as someone who brought people together. Whether sharing stories on deck, participating in group activities, or engaging in meaningful dialogue about the future of the Arctic, he contributed wholeheartedly. His enthusiasm was contagious, and he had a way of making others feel included and valued. Brandon’s return for a second expedition speaks to the profound impact SOI had on him—and the impact he had in return.
The Students on Ice program has long been dedicated to fostering youth leadership, environmental stewardship, and cross-cultural understanding. Alumni often describe their expeditions as life-changing experiences that form lifelong bonds. The loss of Joshua and Brandon is deeply felt across this close-knit network of young leaders, educators, scientists, and mentors who shared in those unforgettable Arctic journeys.
While details surrounding the causes of their deaths have not been publicly disclosed, the focus within the SOI community remains on honoring their lives and supporting those who are grieving. Messages of remembrance and condolence have poured in from fellow alumni and staff members who recall the laughter, insight, and friendship both young men brought to their expeditions.
In moments of grief, the SOI Alumni Community draws strength from its shared mission and the enduring spirit of exploration and connection that Joshua and Brandon embodied. Their time in the Arctic was marked by learning, reflection, and a deepened commitment to protecting the planet. That legacy continues through the many young leaders who were inspired by their presence.
As families, friends, and the broader community mourn, they also celebrate the meaningful lives Joshua Komangapik and Brandon Pardy lived. Though their time was far too short, the impact they made endures in memories, in friendships formed across the Arctic waters, and in the shared commitment to stewardship that defines the Students on Ice experience.
The SOI Alumni Community extends its heartfelt condolences to their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. May Joshua and Brandon be remembered not only for the sadness of their passing but for the passion, promise, and positivity they brought into the world. Their spirits will remain part of the enduring story of Students on Ice.
