Newsletter

ASU Presents: Celebration of Life For Rasikh Shaukat

By Eva Jo McIlraith, Mia Piscitani

October 8, 2025

During the month of September, National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, the Hamilton community came together to celebrate the life and memory of Rasikh Shaukat, a beloved student who passed away this May.

Rasikh was a devoted member and supporter of the Asian Student Union (ASU) and served as co-chair on the Committee Board for Intramural Sports. He was known across campus as a wonderful friend, a thoughtful classmate, and a compassionate, open-hearted soul who had a unique ability to make everyone feel seen and included.

On September 22nd, the Asian Student Union and Basketball Club co-hosted a 3-on-3 basketball tournament in Rasikh’s honor—an intentional tribute that reflected his love for the sport and the way he used it to bring people together. The event drew an incredible turnout of students, faculty, and staff who came to play, cheer, and remember Rasikh’s impact on the community.

One faculty member shared that they had been wondering if any campus organizations might host a remembrance event for Rasikh—and expressed their deep appreciation that ASU and Basketball Club took the initiative to do so. Many others echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing how meaningful it was to gather in his memory and how events like this not only honor those we’ve lost but also help raise awareness about suicide prevention and mental health.

A friend of Rasikh’s reflected that “he would’ve done the same for his friend.” Those words resonated deeply with many, capturing the essence of who Rasikh was: someone who never left anyone behind.

As we reflect on Rasikh’s life and the love he shared, we are reminded that remembrance is not only about looking back—it’s also about carrying forward his spirit of kindness, inclusion, and togetherness.