Former University of California track and field star Shelby Danielle died Wednesday, the university announced, just months after celebrating receiving her master's degree.
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Daniele, 23, earned a bachelor's degree in agriculture from Caltech in 2023 while competing on the school's track and field team.
The Caltech sprinter competed for the Mustangs for five years, from 2020 to 2024.
In June, Danielle posed with a big smile alongside her parents as she celebrated graduating with honors with a master's degree in agriculture.
“Cal Poly Athletics is deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of former Cal Poly student-athlete Shelby Daniele,” the school's athletics department said. Team shared on Instagram on friday.
According to the school, “Shelby was on Cal Poly's track and field team for five years and was a standout student-athlete. “She was a six-time All-Big West honoree, two-time Big West champion, and team captain. She was a great teammate and school record holder, but more importantly, she was a great teammate and leader. She cared deeply for those around her and had a great heart. He was a role model for us.
“Shelby was a truly unique athlete who will be greatly missed by everyone in the Cal Poly community. We extend our condolences to her family and friends,” the school concluded.
Danielle holds the Mustang program record for fastest indoor 200 meters at 24.69 seconds.
She also ran the indoor 60 meters and 100 meters with a time of 11.58 seconds, the second fastest in school history.
He placed second in the 200 meters at the 2024 Big West Championships.
Danielle finished 43rd in her last collegiate meet at the NCAA West Qualifiers in Arkansas on May 23 with a time of 23.65 seconds, aided by the wind.
The Clovis, Calif., native was a rising star at Buchanan High School before attending Cal Poly.
During his senior year, Danielle won the CIF state title in the 200 meter individual race with a time of 23.73 seconds.
“She was a very, very fierce competitor, but had great love and joy for everyone around her,” Weaver Told YourCentralValley.
According to his LinkedIn profile, Daniele worked with his family as an assistant field manager at Jalonen Ranches, a family-owned almond and walnut ranch in Carruthers, California.
She pursued a career in agriculture “so that I could improve the environment and contribute to society.”
Danielle's sister paid tribute to her “best friend”.
“My worst nightmare happened this morning, September 25, 2024. My sister, my best friend, left Earth to be with God. I'll never understand why, but she's exactly where she's supposed to be.'' Jessica Reichman he wrote on Instagram.
“I wish we could have spent the rest of our lives together, but things will be different now, and we will get through it. You were the light of everyone's lives, and it's incredible I can't talk to you anymore. I love you forever, baby,” the grieving sister added.
Danielle's family held a candlelight vigil for her Friday night at Buchanan High School, according to a Facebook post.
