IAR Remembers Travis Nunes

Travis Nunes was a familiar face throughout the hallways of IAR. His warm and enthusiastic personality and his sharp sense of style made him a favorite amongst students, teachers and faculty alike. Like every student here at IAR, Travis had a deep passion for the art of audio engineering. He reveled in his coursework, soaking up knowledge and often staying late to dissect minute points of audio with his teachers. As a student, he worked hard and did his best to encourage and assist his classmates if they needed extra help.

Combining his love of audio with his deep faith, Travis worked as an engineer and producer for the audio ministry at his church, The Bethel Gospel Assembly in Harlem. There, he was known as a stellar recording engineer and a fantastic supervisor and role model. Elder Darren Hicks remembers that whenever he needed Travis to do something, Travis would always be two steps ahead and reply, “Elder Darren, it’s already taken care of!”

His friend and mentor, John McFadden who Travis referred to as “Sensei”, remembers how focused Travis was, and how easily he was able to learn new things. His intelligence coupled with his warm attitude and fashion sense earned him the nickname, “Mr. President”. McFadden, who often hired Travis to assist him on gigs, has nothing but fond memories. He says, “I've mentored young kids previously but he was by far the most motivated, willing and eager to learn. I told him something one time and that was it. He picked up on everything effortlessly. On our long rides I got to see how passionate he was. From family to audio, to rapping, dancing and photography, he did them all very well. I thought to myself, My God, I pray that my son can grow up to be like you.” Most recently, Travis created the company NuFilm Productions, a media production company which followed in the footsteps of his mentor.

Though he was only 20, Travis leaves behind a vast array of recordings and production material. Along with great memories, his portfolio of recordings will continue to serve as his legacy for his family and friends. Travis Nunes was an extraordinary young man. He will long be remembered here at IAR as a bright star who left us all too soon.