Students and faculty gathered Thursday night to celebrate the life of Lu Gan, a member of the class of 2013 who died July 30 after a long illness.
University Chaplain Chaz Howard opened the service by describing Gan as an “amazing, amazing young lady; one of the best.”
He explained how the University wanted to honor Gan — referred to as Lucy by many of her friends — in her Penn home, Gregory College House. Behind him, a slide show played pictures of Gan with her friends and family, with whom she was very close.
“In the hospital, Lu’s mom was always by her side,” Howard remembered. “Her parents often slept in her hospital room and held her hand.”
At the memorial, photos were taken and a book was signed to send to Gan’s parents, who live in China.
Howard told students that Gan’s close relationships were “a reminder of a way we can take care of each other.”
Sharon Smith, director of student intervention services, supported Gan through her illness and was impacted by her courage.
“She never once complained,” Smith said. “She had such dignity and was a wonderful young lady.”
Several of Gan’s peers spoke about her kindness and strong spirit.
“Lu was so strong and brave,” College sophomore Maya Chacko said. “I will always admire how hard-working and dedicated she was.”
Gan’s freshman year roommate, College sophomore Devin Troy, remembered Gan’s generosity starting from the day they moved in together.
“She was a really beautiful person inside and out,” Troy said.
“She was always extremely nice — a really great roommate to have.”
College sophomore Jacqueline Yue — who said Gan was her best friend at school — advised everyone to keep in touch with friends and take advantage of every moment.
“You hear about bad things happening, but they seem so distant,” Yue said.
“You really need to value friendship and the things you have.”
