Additionally, Ms. Shemi was a National Merit Scholar and a Presidential Scholar. She worked part-time as an undergraduate research assistant at the Blenner Lab on campus and was a global quality intern at Colgate-Palmolive this summer. She was posthumously awarded her chemical engineering degree with honors.

Ms. Shemi’s family, friends and members of the University community shared their reflections:

Adam Cantley, dean of students and assistant vice president for student support and advocacy: “We’re deeply saddened by the loss of Thanya Shemi. She was a bright, hardworking student with a promising future following her passion in the biopharmaceutical industry. Her family and friends have shared many beautiful memories, and it is a privilege for our campus to learn more about Thanya’s life.”

Jinju Shemi, Ms. Shemi’s mother: “My beautiful daughter was more than just a daughter—she was my best friend, my guide and the planner of our lives. She always knew what was best, leading me through every step with love and wisdom. She wasn’t just the leader of our family; she was the heart of it. I only had one best friend, and she was my daughter, guiding me with her grace and strength. Her light will forever lead the way.”

Shemi Anthru, Ms. Shemi’s father: “From the moment she first stepped into kindergarten, she led the way with pride and determination, excelling in her studies and gracing us with her beautiful dance. Always at the top, she made us proud in everything she did. Even now, her light guides us, reminding us of the joy, pride and inspiration she brought into our lives every day. She will forever be our leader, our pride and our guiding star.”

Kainat Azhar, UD junior chemical engineering major: “Thanya was not just one of my closest friends; she was a mentor, a loving daughter and sister, and above all, someone with the most beautiful heart. She cherished her loved ones deeply and always spoke with such warmth about them. She was someone who truly never gave up and inspired others to do the same. Her presence brought you the comfort and strength needed to keep going. I, along with many others, will miss her deeply, but we will honor her legacy and work to fulfill the dreams she had."

Damayanti Pachade, UD junior chemical engineering major: "Thanya was such a kind and inspiring person, and she had this amazing way of making everyone feel welcome and understood. Ever since middle school, I’ve always felt a sense of comfort with her. She was one of my closest friends who I could talk to about anything, someone who I could laugh with, and someone who would always encourage me. No matter how hard things got, she always stayed strong and encouraged others to do the same. I’ll always carry her kindness and strength with me. Even though she’s not here anymore, the love and memories she left behind will never fade. Let’s all remember her by staying strong when things get tough, just like she did, and by living with the same heart and determination that she showed us."

In addition to her parents, Ms. Shemi is survived by her younger brother Adam.

Services were held at the Islamic Society of Central Jersey, and Ms. Shemi was buried at Greenwood Cemetery in Hamilton, New Jersey on Aug. 2. Condolences can be shared via email at thanya.shemi.condolences@gmail.com.