Roanoke, VA – The Hollins University Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of Phuong-Anh Ha, Cherished Member of the Class of 2026, in Devastating Accident
The Hollins University community is in deep mourning following the tragic passing of Phuong-Anh Ha, affectionately known as “Fish,” a beloved member of the Class of 2026. Phuong-Anh’s life was tragically cut short in a devastating accident that has left the university community heartbroken. Known for her infectious enthusiasm, boundless creativity, and unwavering kindness, Fish was much more than a student at Hollins – she was an inspiring presence on campus whose warmth and light touched the hearts of all who knew her.
As the news of Phuong-Anh’s passing spread across the campus this week, students, faculty, staff, and friends came together to mourn the loss of a young woman whose legacy of compassion, dedication, and joy will never be forgotten. In response to this immense loss, the university has announced the postponement of its annual Hollins Day of Giving, originally scheduled for Thursday, April 10, and rescheduled to Monday, April 28. This decision reflects the university’s commitment to providing the community with the time and space needed to grieve, reflect, and support each other during this profoundly difficult time.
The Heart and Soul of Hollins University
Phuong-Anh Ha, a Roanoke native, was a bright and promising student who brought a unique energy to everything she did. Whether participating in student organizations, lending a helping hand to a friend, or simply sharing a smile across the quad, Fish’s presence was a constant reminder of the beauty of connection and kindness. Her infectious enthusiasm was unmatched, and her dedication to fostering community was something that everyone around her deeply admired.
“She was the heart and soul of Hollins University,” said one faculty member. “Phuong-Anh brought such light to our campus. She embodied what it means to be a Hollins student — curious, caring, and full of heart. The loss of her presence is deeply felt, and her absence will be profoundly noticed.”
Phuong-Anh’s unique spirit and energy touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Her genuine kindness and passion for life created a welcoming environment for all around her. Many classmates and friends described her as the “get soul” of their social circles, someone who could always be counted on for a smile, a kind word, or an uplifting gesture. Her laughter was infectious, and her ability to make others feel seen and valued was unmatched.
A Light That Shone Bright on Campus
Known for her unwavering compassion and boundless energy, Phuong-Anh was an active member of the Hollins community. She participated in various student organizations and was deeply committed to fostering a sense of connection and belonging on campus. Whether organizing events, working with classmates on group projects, or engaging in community service, Fish always went above and beyond to make others feel included and supported. She was more than just a student; she was a source of comfort, a bright light that shone through the halls of Hollins University.
Many of her peers and faculty members fondly recalled her dedication to her academic work, her vibrant personality, and her willingness to help others. “She was an amazing student, an inspiring individual, and a true friend to all who knew her,” said a fellow student. “Phuong-Anh had an innate ability to make everyone feel important, like they mattered. She made Hollins a better place just by being herself.”
The university community has expressed how deeply they will miss Phuong-Anh’s presence. The loss of such a warm and beloved individual has left a hole in the hearts of her friends and classmates, and the entire campus is grieving together. Her legacy, however, will live on in the countless lives she touched with her kindness, her laughter, and her unwavering spirit.
Remembering Phuong-Anh Ha: A Celebration of Her Life
In the wake of this tragic loss, the university has begun planning a memorial gathering where students, faculty, and friends can come together to celebrate Phuong-Anh’s life, honor her memory, and find solace in one another’s company. This gathering will provide an opportunity for everyone who knew Phuong-Anh to reflect on her impact, share their favorite memories, and offer support to one another during this painful time.
In addition to the memorial, Hollins University has made counseling services and support resources available to students and faculty members who may be struggling with the news of Phuong-Anh’s passing. The university recognizes the profound grief that many members of the community are experiencing, and it is dedicated to ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need as they navigate this difficult period.
A Legacy of Love and Light
As the Hollins community comes to terms with the loss of Phuong-Anh Ha, they are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of others. Phuong-Anh’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and passion for life will continue to inspire all who knew her. Though she is no longer with us physically, her spirit will forever remain a guiding light, reminding us of the power of love, friendship, and community.
A message from the university to the community reads, “May we continue to care for one another with the same light and love that Phuong-Anh shared with us all. As her family, friends, and classmates navigate this painful loss, the legacy of Phuong-Anh Ha will live on in the countless lives she touched with her kindness, her laughter, and her unwavering spirit.”
The Hollins community is united in grief, but also in gratitude for having known such a remarkable young woman. Phuong-Anh Ha may no longer walk among them, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have crossed her path.
Support and Resources for the Hollins University Community
In light of the tragedy, Hollins University is prioritizing the mental health and well-being of its students, faculty, and staff. In addition to the rescheduling of the Hollins Day of Giving, the university has announced that grief counseling and other support services will be available to those affected by the loss.
The university is working closely with counselors and mental health professionals to ensure that members of the community have the resources they need to cope with the emotional impact of Phuong-Anh’s passing. Whether through individual counseling sessions, group therapy, or simply providing a safe space for individuals to talk about their feelings, Hollins is committed to supporting its community members as they work through this difficult time.
A Final Tribute: Celebrating Phuong-Anh Ha’s Legacy
As the Hollins University community reflects on the life and legacy of Phuong-Anh Ha, they are reminded of the importance of cherishing the time we have with those we love and the profound impact that kindness, compassion, and friendship can have on the world. Phuong-Anh’s life, though tragically short, was a testament to the power of love and connection.
Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and the lessons she taught through her actions — the importance of caring for others, of being present, and of living each day with joy — will continue to guide the community she left behind. Phuong-Anh Ha’s light may have been extinguished too soon, but it will never be forgotten.
In the coming weeks, as the Hollins community gathers to honor Phuong-Anh’s memory, it is clear that her legacy will endure, not only in the stories and memories shared by those who knew her but in the lives of those she touched with her unwavering spirit and love. The impact of Phuong-Anh Ha, the cherished “Fish” of Hollins University, will live on for years to come.
