Danielle Kondla – RIP

The Department of Earth Sciences mourns the loss of postgraduate student Danielle Kondla (Univ 2015) earlier this week. Danielle was a bright star in our department who set an example of academic excellence and personal enthusiasm. As a graduate student she played a central role in the social life of our department that touched many of us. Faculty, staff and students in the department provided immense support and comfort to Danielle and her family over this last year and she will be keenly missed.

Danielle’s family and friends have written the following obituary:

“Danielle Kondla died peacefully, with her mother by her side, in Calgary, Alberta on September 26, 2017 at the age of 34. Danielle is survived by her parents, Heather (Rosario) and Kurt; sister Lisa; niece Wren; maternal grandmother Helen; step-siblings Paul and Chantelle; nephew Amari; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Danielle was born on November 18, 1982 in Calgary, AB. where she attended school with a close-knit group of friends. Upon graduation, Danielle attended Olds College and graduated in 2003 from the faculty of Animal Health Technology. After working for several years in this field, Danielle decided to pursue her passion for Geology and returned to her studies at the University of Calgary. There she completed her BSc (2013) and MSc in Geology (2015). She obtained Honours with Distinction for both of these degrees and various awards. Her passion, strong work ethic, and perseverance paid off as she was accepted to Oxford University (United Kingdom) to complete her DPhil Geology degree. Danielle’s new career in Geology allowed her to travel the world, presenting her research and knowledge at various universities and conferences, which led to her developing strong friendships internationally.

This past year, Danielle exemplified grace, strength, dignity, kindness, humour, and resiliency. We can all learn from this positive example. In lieu of flowers, Danielle has requested that you buy some wine and chocolate for yourself to enjoy with your loved ones.”

If you wish to offer your thoughts or memories to Danielle’s family, then please contact Claire Grainger who can arrange for tributes to be forwarded.  If you would like to talk to someone, staff can contact HR and students can contact the Academic Office, or you can access support through Occupational Health or the Student Counselling Service.