Thomas M. Menino, Boston’s longest-serving mayor, died Thursday after a battle with cancer. He was 71.

In a statement, Northeastern President Joseph E. Aoun said: “Today, Boston lost a great leader, higher education lost a great champion, and I lost a mentor. Mayor Menino not only welcomed my family and me to Boston, he taught me firsthand about the power of partnerships and the value of being close to the people you represent.

“I will miss his wise counsel and the way he related to all people. He will always be the people’s mayor and the legacy of his accomplishments will endure forever.”

Throughout the day, many throughout the city took to social media to share their memories of Menino and pay their respects. Those in the Northeastern community remembered him as “a great man,” “the urban mechanic,” a “creative mind,” and someone who cared deeply about the city and its people.

Menino visited Northeastern’s campus many times throughout his 20-year tenure as mayor. In one of his most recent visits, he served as the keynote speaker in September 2013 at Northeastern’s Open Classroom series. Menino reflected on his 20-year term as Boston’s mayor, particularly some of his public health initiatives that required taking bold risks.