In Loving Memory of Henna Aslam – A Shining Light at Rutgers University–New Brunswick

In Loving Memory of Henna Aslam – A Shining Light at Rutgers University–New Brunswick

The sudden and heartbreaking passing of Henna Aslam, a devoted student at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, has sent waves of grief and sorrow through the university community. A brilliant mind and a kind heart, Henna was much more than a student—she was a friend, a mentor, a listener, and a source of light for those lucky enough to know her. Her loss is not only deeply felt but also serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion, connection, and mental well-being.

Henna was a standout both in and outside the classroom. Her professors recall a young woman whose curiosity was as boundless as her kindness. She approached learning with passion and sincerity, and she brought a quiet leadership to every space she entered. Whether it was through collaborative projects, class discussions, or late-night study sessions, Henna’s thoughtful nature and unwavering support for her peers left a lasting impression.

Fellow students speak of Henna with reverence and love. She had an innate ability to make people feel seen, heard, and valued. Many remember her for her calming presence, her ability to listen without judgment, and her dedication to being there for others, even when she faced her own challenges. In a world that often moves too fast, Henna made time for people—and in doing so, she made a difference.

The Rutgers community has responded to Henna’s passing with an outpouring of emotion, reflection, and unity. Vigils, messages of remembrance, and moments of silence have offered solace to many. But her passing has also sparked a broader and crucial conversation—one about mental health among college students. The pressures of academic life, social expectations, and personal struggles can become overwhelming, and Henna’s story is now a powerful call to action.

Universities across the country are grappling with how best to support their students, and Rutgers is no exception. Henna’s legacy is now intertwined with a push for more accessible mental health resources, increased awareness, and a culture of care on campus. Her life and her struggles, though private, have ignited a public dialogue about empathy, mental health advocacy, and the urgent need to foster environments where asking for help is not only accepted but encouraged.

To honor Henna Aslam is to remember the love and hope she brought into the world. It is to carry forward her example—reaching out to friends who may be hurting, checking in on each other, and building communities rooted in understanding and support. Her memory challenges each of us to be better, to be kinder, and to never underestimate the power of a gentle word or a listening ear.

Henna may no longer walk the campus of Rutgers, but her spirit remains—in every act of kindness, in every effort to support mental health, and in every student who chooses to lift up those around them. She was, and always will be, a beloved member of the Rutgers family.

May her memory be a blessing, and may we all continue to honor her life by striving to live with the same compassion and grace that she so effortlessly embodied.