In Loving Memory of Harpy Helsvenn: A Heartbreaking Loss to Michigan State University and Beyond

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we share the tragic news of the passing of our beloved student, Harpy Helsvenn, who was involved in a fatal vehicular accident on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Harpy, a bright and vibrant soul, was only 32 years old. Her loss has left a gaping void in the hearts of those who knew her and a deep sorrow within the Michigan State University (MSU) community and beyond. As we come to terms with the shock of her untimely passing, we reflect on the life of this incredible woman who brought so much joy and love to everyone she met.

Born on October 5, 1992, in Columbia, South Carolina, Harpy’s journey was one filled with love, creativity, and an insatiable desire to leave the world a better place. As a child, Harpy demonstrated a unique spirit that captivated everyone she encountered. Her vivacious energy and infectious personality made her a friend to many, and she formed meaningful relationships throughout her life. Harpy was not only a student at Michigan State University but also an advocate, an artist, and a creator who embodied a rare combination of talent, compassion, and integrity.

In the days following her passing, friends, family, and those who were fortunate enough to witness her exceptional journey have come forward with stories that highlight the deep impact Harpy had on the world around her. In the MSU community, Harpy was more than a student; she was an inspiring figure who embodied resilience, creativity, and authenticity. Her dedication to her studies and her passion for artistic expression made her a beloved figure, and her untimely departure has left an unfillable space in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Lifelong Passion for Art: Harpy’s Gift to the World

Harpy’s love for art and creativity was evident from an early age. Whether through painting, drawing, playing music, or her deep love for anime, Harpy used her artistic expression as a way to connect with the world around her. Art was not just a hobby for Harpy; it was a means of communication, a way to bring people together, and a path toward self-exploration.

She had a remarkable ability to create beauty in all forms. Her paintings, often inspired by the colors and characters she adored in anime, were full of life and energy, often reflecting her unique view of the world. Her drawings and sketches were intricate, filled with detail and passion, and her music was the perfect soundtrack to her expressive life. Harpy’s ability to blend the vibrant world of anime with her own personal experiences created art that spoke to everyone who encountered it.

But it wasn’t just her work that made Harpy so beloved—it was the way she made others feel. Those who had the privilege of working with her or simply sharing time with her speak of the way Harpy made them feel seen and valued. She had an innate ability to listen deeply, to empathize with others, and to offer her unique perspective in a way that was both encouraging and inspiring. It was this ability that made Harpy a leader in her own right, not by seeking attention but by creating spaces where others felt safe to be their authentic selves.

The Heart of a Friend: Harpy’s Impact on Those Around Her

To those who knew her, Harpy was a steadfast friend and confidante. Her ability to make others feel seen and heard was one of her most endearing qualities. Harpy had a profound sense of empathy, and she always seemed to know when someone needed support or encouragement. Whether through kind words, a thoughtful gesture, or simply offering a listening ear, Harpy gave unconditionally to her friends and loved ones.

Her friendships were built on mutual respect and understanding. She never judged others and always sought to build others up. Those who were close to Harpy describe her as someone who could brighten even the darkest of days with her laughter and her thoughtful presence. Whether it was spending hours drawing together, watching their favorite anime shows, or engaging in deep conversations about the complexities of life, Harpy’s friendships were genuine, deep, and lasting.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Harpy’s friendships was her ability to forge connections across different walks of life. She had friends from all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, and she treated each one with the same level of care and respect. Her openness to diversity, combined with her unwavering belief in kindness, made her a beloved figure within her social circle.

A Dedicated Advocate for Creativity and Inclusion

While Harpy’s art was her primary form of self-expression, she was also deeply committed to advocating for the inclusion of underrepresented voices in creative spaces. As a student at Michigan State University, Harpy took an active role in promoting diversity within the artistic community. She was passionate about creating opportunities for marginalized voices, and she worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone had a chance to be seen and heard in the arts.

Her work with various student organizations, both at MSU and in the broader community, focused on providing platforms for those who might not otherwise have access to them. Whether it was organizing an art exhibition showcasing the work of emerging artists of color, or speaking at events that focused on social justice and inclusivity, Harpy made it her mission to fight for the equal representation of all voices in the arts.

This commitment to advocacy was driven by Harpy’s personal experiences and the values she held dear. She knew firsthand the power of representation and inclusion, and she wanted to ensure that others had the same opportunities to succeed and thrive in the creative world. Her activism, paired with her artistic talent, made her an important figure in the creative communities she was a part of, and her loss leaves a significant gap in the ongoing work for greater inclusivity and diversity in the arts.

A Life Taken Too Soon: Reflecting on Harpy’s Legacy

Harpy Helsvenn’s untimely passing at the age of 32 has left a profound impact on all who knew her. In a world that often feels divided and uncertain, Harpy’s life was a beacon of positivity, creativity, and authenticity. Her legacy is one of love, connection, and a deep commitment to making the world a better place, both through her art and through the relationships she fostered.

While we mourn the loss of such an extraordinary individual, we are also reminded of the many ways in which Harpy touched our lives. Her art continues to inspire those who knew her, her kindness continues to echo in the hearts of her friends and loved ones, and her legacy as an advocate for diversity and inclusion will live on in the work she began and the change she sparked.

As we remember Harpy, we also reflect on the impact she had on the broader MSU community. She was not just a student but a leader, an advocate, and an artist who showed us all the power of living authentically and embracing our passions. Harpy’s life was a testament to the importance of following one’s heart, staying true to oneself, and lifting others up along the way.

The MSU community, along with all of those who knew Harpy, mourns her loss deeply. Her passing has left a hole in our hearts, but we are grateful for the time we had with her. We will carry her memory forward, honoring the values she embodied—creativity, kindness, inclusivity, and authenticity.

Conclusion: Harpy’s Enduring Influence

In the wake of Harpy Helsvenn’s tragic passing, we reflect not only on the sorrow we feel at her loss but also on the immense gratitude we feel for having had the privilege of knowing her. Harpy’s life was one of purpose, creativity, and love. She will forever remain in our hearts, and her legacy will continue to inspire us to live fully, love deeply, and create fearlessly.

As the Michigan State University community and the world mourn her untimely departure, we remember Harpy not just for her artistic achievements, but for the profound influence she had on all who crossed her path. Her vibrant spirit will live on in the art she created, the friendships she forged, and the advocacy work she championed. In her memory, we commit to continuing the work she started—fostering inclusivity, championing creativity, and, above all, being true to ourselves. Harpy’s story is not over; it continues to unfold in the lives of those who were touched by her presence.

May Harpy Helsvenn rest in peace, and may her memory continue to inspire us all.