U.Va Community hosts remembrance event for University student Rehan Baddeliyanage
The University community hosted a “Celebration of Life” event Sunday morning in Old Cabell Hall for Rehan Baddeliyanage, the fourth-year Engineering student who unexpectedly passed away in an accident over spring break. The remembrance event was followed by a reception in the McIntire School of Commerce’s Art Gallery and Courtyard. Approximately 200 people were in attendance.
Baddeliyanage was majoring in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Business Engineering. He was the vice chair for professional expectations and promotions in Housing and Residence Life. He was a member of the University Guide Service, Theta Tau professional engineering fraternity, IMP Society, Madison House, The Virginia No-Tones and Virginia Men’s Ultimate Club Frisbee.
Baddeliyanage was also the recipient of the Kris Kishore Memorial Scholarship which was established in 2015 and is awarded to a fourth-year student at U.Va who demonstrates values such as service, community impact, leadership and passionate learning and “continue[s] leading a life of public service that inspires others and brings lasting, beneficial change to the community.”
Dean Allen Groves opened the remembrance event with a few remarks about Baddeliyanage’s accomplishments and positive impact on the community. Groves mentioned that the community should focus on celebrating who Baddeliyanage was and the memories he left behind.