Menaal4Life Award

The Menaal4Life Award in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Calgary honours the life and legacy of a remarkable young woman whose dreams, character, and compassion continue to inspire everyone who knew her.
Menaal was a vibrant, kind-hearted, and deeply empathetic soul who was preparing to begin her university journey at the University of Calgary. She was accepted into the Psychology program after initially exploring Nursing, both fields reflecting her profound desire to support and uplift others. Her life, however, was tragically cut short due to complications following a Bone Marrow Transplant. She developed HLH after her transplant and passed away on January 27, 2024.
Beyond her academic goals, what truly defined Menaal was her unwavering commitment to people. She had an extraordinary ability to sense when someone needed help, comfort, or protection and she always stepped forward without hesitation. She often went above and beyond for friends, classmates, and even strangers. Whether it was advocating for peers who felt unheard, standing up for those who were oppressed or mistreated, or offering a safe, loving shoulder to anyone going through hardship, Menaal lived with a courage and generosity far beyond her years.
She was “everyone’s best friend,” a gentle leader, a fierce supporter, and a source of joy and comfort to those around her. Her radiant smile, contagious laughter, and compassionate heart left an imprint on every life she touched. Although she left this world before she could fulfill her many ambitions, it is her unfulfilled dream of becoming a University of Calgary graduate and her lifelong passion for helping others that inspires this award.
Through the Menaal4Life Award, we hope to carry forward her spirit by supporting students whose journey reflects the same resilience, kindness, and dedication to service that she embodied. By helping others pursue their educational aspirations, we honour the path Menaal never got the chance to walk, and we ensure that her love, compassion, and legacy continue to shine through the lives of others.
If by December 31, 2027, the total amount received from all donors does not reach the endowment goal of $50,000, the gifts received will be used to fund the award on an annual basis until the funds are completely depleted. If the total funds received are unable to support an annual award at the current minimum standards, they will be directed to the Department of Psychology Impact Fund. The University shall not be required to return any portion of the gifts received.