Campus mourns student death

Akash Sharma, a graduate student from India, died Jan. 1, according to an email Notre Dame International sent to international students Jan. 9.

Sharma was a third-year Ph.D. student in chemical and biomolecular engineering, according to the email. He served as co-president of the Indian Association of Notre Dame during the 2012-13 academic year and was a teaching assistant for several classes.

“Akash was an enthusiastic and passionate student with big dreams about the future,” the email said. “Due to his always smiling and friendly nature, he was liked by a large number of graduate and undergraduate students. Akash will greatly be missed.”

The University declined to comment on the cause of Sharma’s death.

Grief counseling is available to students through the University Counseling Center, Campus Ministry and International Student and Scholar Affairs. Details about a memorial service will be forthcoming, according to the email.