UW mourns student killed in Alberta hit and run collision
Posted Sep 22, 2022 08:00:00 PM.
The University of Waterloo is highlighting available support resources and expressing condolences – following the hit and run death of a second-year physics student in Alberta.
According to the university, 20-year-old Ariana Kolenda was killed on May 1 in a hit and run collision on the Trans-Canada Highway, struck near a Visitor Information Centre in Canmore on her birthday.
In a release the university said Ariana, known as Ari to her friends and family, had come to the University of Waterloo to pursue a degree in physics, and is remembered as being “a kind, gentle, loving and intelligent friend to all who were lucky enough to know her.”
“We were beyond proud of her taking on Physics Honours at Waterloo,” said Jodi Blackwood, Ariana's mother, in a provided statement. “Her beautiful heart and incredible mind made her such an amazing human being.”
University staff have indicated that the driver of the vehicle that struck Ariana has still not been located.
Offering thoughts and support for Ariana's family and friends, the university has also directed those in need of professional assistance to reach out to one of several available resources.
