Prayers, pink hearts and flowers go out to the friends and family of Sade Robinson, a former MATC student who tragically lost her life in April 2024. We honor her memory by telling her story and spreading awareness to the MATC community about safe dating, as well as mental health resources during this time of reflection and remembrance. Sade can be honored by all students, staff and faculty representing her favorite color, (pink) and by cherishing the friends and loved ones around you, ensuring the safety of them and yourself.
Sade Carleena Robinson (pronounced as Sah-Dey) was a 19 year old student who would have graduated in person from MATC in May 2024 with honors. She went missing on April 1, 2024 after a first date with Maxwell Anderson. They went to Twisted Fisherman, located on West Canal Street, and Dukes on Water, located on Juneau Avenue. On April 2, it was discovered that she had been killed and dismembered when her leg was found by pedestrians at Warnimont Park in Cudahy.
Police and loved ones were able to detect that the body part belonged to Sade because she was wearing pink toe nail polish. More remains of Sade, along with her vehicle that was torched, were found between April 2 and April 18. Her body parts and bones were found in different parks in the Milwaukee area and Illinois. After police searched Anderson’s home, he was arrested and charged. On Friday, June 6, after a two week trial, Anderson was found guilty of first degree intentional homicide, mutilating a corpse, arson of property, and hiding a corpse in the death and mutilation of Sade.
After the verdict was announced, the Milwaukee community shared photos of her, and they expressed pink heart emoji symbols for Sade, her family and friends on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
In May of 2024, Sade’s loved ones proudly accepted her degree from MATC. The family wore fushia pink, representing Sade with banners and flowers at the graduation ceremony. Pink has been prominently displayed representing support and love for her.
Supporters created a “Pink Out” for Sade on the lawn of Anderson’s home during the trial. The Pink Out consisted of pink balloons, blankets with “Justice for Sade” artwork, teddy bears and more across his lawn where loved ones, friends and others who represented Sade gathered to show love during this difficult time. Flowers and symbols of love were placed near her mural at the Pizza Shuttle located on Farwell Avenue.
Although her life ended too soon, her legacy and beautiful spirit will live on in those who love her.
Dating Safety Tips
Are you new to the dating scene and want to ensure safety while meeting new people? Here are some recommendations:
Always tell your friends and/or family where you are/where you’ll be going if out.
We get it. You’re getting to know this new guy/gal and you want to keep things on the low before making it official. However, keeping your friends and family updated about your dating life, the new people you meet and sharing your location services with the ones who care about you is a great way to be safe. They will be able to detect exactly where you are with your phone, they’ll also be able to give you tips and advice on dating you may not have known before.
Avoid meeting strangers in your personal space or in theirs.
So, the first couple of dates have gone well and you decide/agree to having an afterparty at their place or yours. While we all have those “feel right” moments to take it to the next step, ensure how well you know you know the person before agreeing/considering this option. It is best to avoid those personal spaces until you know who they are. CCAP is a great resource for getting to know your partner just a little bit more, you never know who you’re going to meet.
Trust your instincts and protect your private information.
If a plan feels like a bad idea and it creates that gut feeling, or you have some hesitation about moving forward, it is probably best to avoid and reconsider. Knowing what your red flags are and being cautious of sharing personal information like your home address, financial situation or any private details about life in the first stages of dating is another great way to keep you and your loved ones safe.
Mental Health Help
Help is available to MATC students. Students can receive free mental health services with CAPS (Counseling and Psychological Services).
