The University of Guelph is mourning the tragic loss of Kaiya D’Souza, an Honours Bachelor of Science student specializing in Biological Science, who passed away over the weekend. Her untimely death has left an indelible mark on the hearts of her peers, faculty, and the broader university community. To honor her memory, the campus flags will be lowered to half-mast on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in a poignant gesture of respect and remembrance for the life of this bright, dedicated young woman. The entire community is coming to terms with the loss, and her passing has brought a sense of grief and sorrow that will be felt deeply by all who knew her.
Kaiya’s life was a testament to her passion for the biological sciences, and her commitment to her studies was unwavering. As a student specializing in Biological Science, she demonstrated exceptional academic prowess, not only through her coursework but also in the enthusiasm and dedication she brought to every academic pursuit. Her professors and classmates alike admired her for her intellectual curiosity, her ability to engage in thoughtful discussions, and her relentless pursuit of knowledge. Kaiya’s love for her field was evident in the way she approached every challenge, tackling it with enthusiasm and a genuine interest in learning.
Beyond her academic excellence, Kaiya was also an active member of the University of Guelph community. She participated in various campus activities, contributing positively to the university’s social and academic environment. Whether attending events, supporting her fellow students, or collaborating with faculty members, Kaiya made her presence known. Her involvement in university life reflected her commitment not only to her personal academic growth but also to the growth and development of the broader community.
In light of this profound loss, the University of Guelph has organized a memorial service to honor Kaiya’s memory. The service will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m., and the service commencing at 7:00 p.m. The service will take place at the St. Volodymyr Cultural Centre, located at 1280 Dundas St. W, Oakville, L6M 4H9. This memorial will be an opportunity for friends, family, and the entire university community to come together to reflect on Kaiya’s life, celebrate her achievements, and mourn her passing. The service will offer a space for collective remembrance, providing comfort for those who were touched by her presence.
As the university processes this heartbreaking loss, it has also put in place a range of support services to assist students, faculty, and staff during this difficult time. The community has rallied together to ensure that Kaiya’s peers and those affected by her passing are supported. Counselling services are available, with drop-in sessions taking place on Tuesday and Wednesday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the East Residence Life Office, located near the laundry rooms in Glengarry. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these sessions, which provide a safe space for grief and healing. Additionally, students can schedule appointments or attend daily drop-in hours, and further details are available on the university’s Counselling Services page.
The Multi-Faith Resource Team is also offering spiritual support, available to all members of the university community. For those seeking spiritual guidance during this time of sorrow, the team can be contacted at 519-824-4120, Ext. 58909. The university is committed to ensuring that every individual has access to the support they need, no matter their background or beliefs.
For students in immediate distress, the university has partnered with a crisis text line. Students can text “UofG” to 686868 to connect with a trained crisis responder. This service is available 24/7 and provides a confidential, supportive space for students to talk through their feelings and concerns. Recognizing the impact of this loss, the university has also extended support to its staff members. Faculty and staff who are struggling with the news of Kaiya’s passing can access the Employee Assistance Program by calling 1-800-265-8310.
While the university has not yet shared specific details about the circumstances surrounding Kaiya’s death, it is clear that this loss has affected the community deeply. The university is respecting the privacy of Kaiya’s family during this time and has not provided additional information beyond what has been shared. As the days go on, the university will continue to provide updates as necessary and will ensure that the community remains informed, while also maintaining sensitivity to the family’s wishes.
Kaiya’s passing is a reminder of the fragile nature of life and the deep impact that one person can have on the lives of many. For those who knew her, her kindness, enthusiasm, and dedication will never be forgotten. As the university community comes together to mourn, it is important to reflect on the ways in which Kaiya touched the lives of others, both academically and personally. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her, and her memory will continue to inspire future generations of students, just as she inspired those around her during her time at the University of Guelph.
Kaiya’s life was a beautiful example of dedication, passion, and kindness, and though she may no longer be physically with us, her spirit will remain in the halls of the University of Guelph. She leaves behind a lasting legacy in the hearts of her peers, faculty, and everyone she interacted with. Her memory will be carried forward in the work that she accomplished, the relationships she built, and the inspiration she provided to all who knew her.
As we come together to mourn Kaiya’s passing, let us also celebrate the life she lived and the impact she had on those around her. Let us hold her family in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time, and let us take comfort in the fact that Kaiya’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to learning will never be forgotten. The University of Guelph community will forever remember Kaiya D’Souza, and her memory will continue to inspire future generations of students in the years to come.
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