Kyana Afshari Memorial Scholarship

It is with heavy hearts that we remember Kyana Afshari, who passed away unexpectedly. Kyana was more than accomplished or talented, she was someone who truly cared and lived life fully. She showed up for people, believed deeply in education and community, and lived every day with the intention of lifting others up.

Kyana was incredibly intelligent and endlessly enthusiastic about learning. From the beginning of her college journey, she immersed herself in student organizations and campus life, always looking for ways to grow and help others do the same. She was passionate about honoring women’s contributions to technology and carried that passion with confidence and grace. Through her participation in beauty pageants, Kyana embodied poise, leadership, and self-confidence, challenging expectations and showing that strength, intelligence, and compassion take many forms.

Kyana earned both her undergraduate and master’s degrees from Arizona State University, where she later worked as a Senior Cyber Security Analyst, a role she truly loved. Giving back was central to who she was. Beginning in her second year of college, she became a mentor to new students offering guidance, encouragement, and reassurance. She had a special way of making people feel seen, capable, and supported.

In her memory, we are establishing the Kyana Afshari Memorial Scholarship to support students who share her love for learning, her commitment to community, and her desire to make a difference. We invite friends, colleagues, and all who were touched by Kyana to consider supporting this scholarship in her honor.

Every contribution helps carry her legacy forward by opening doors for students just as Kyana so generously did throughout her life. Thank you for remembering Kyana and for helping us honor the beautiful person she was.

This scholarship will be established as an annual award, however, in the event the gifts or pledges received reach $50,000 by December 31, 2031, the scholarship will be converted to an endowment to provide scholarships in perpetuity. Your gift may be considered a charitable contribution. Please consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of charitable contributions.