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Statement Concerning Aditi Avhad

August 3rd, 2012

Story Contact: Christian Basi, 573-882-4430, BasiC@missouri.edu

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Aditi Avhad, a University of Missouri graduate student from Mumbai, India, died last night as a result of injuries sustained in a bus accident near Litchfeld, Ill. The bus was en route from Chicago to St. Louis.

“Members of the MU community are saddened today to learn of the death of one of our students, Ms. Aditi Avhad,” said University of Missouri Chancellor Brady Deaton. “She was a stellar student who made great contributions to the knowledge-building mission of the university. All of our hearts are a little heavier today as we grieve this loss. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her parents.”

Avhad was admitted to the health administration graduate program at MU in fall of 2011 and was currently enrolled for this coming semester. She was awarded a scholarship through the Health Administration Department in the School of Medicine. She was on track to complete her master’s degree in 2013.
“Aditi Avhad was an extremely bright, energetic and beloved student in our health management program,” said Eduardo Simoes, Chair and Health Management and Informatics Alumni Distinguished Professor. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic event and send our sincerest condolences to her family.”

This summer she was engaged in practical training with the Center for Health Care Quality at MU.

“Aditi Avhad was a wonderful student and colleague in the Center for Health Care Quality,” said Douglas S. Wakefield, director of the Center. “Her work ethic, professionalism, intellect and people skills made her a tremendous contributor. The joy her sense of humor and smile brought to our team will be greatly missed.”

Avhad was involved with MU’s Cultural Association of India; members of this group are planning a memorial service for her at 7 p.m. tonight, Aug. 3, at Memorial Union.

“We have lost a wonderful, dear friend,” said Nikhil Tindal, president of the Cultural Association of India. “Aditi was a girl who was always smiling and brought so much joy to us all.”

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