Rachel Apa, the 24-year-old runner who died after collapsing during the New York City Marathon on Nov. 1, is being remembered by her graduate school for her faith in Jesus Christ.
Charleston Southern University, the Christian school where Apa began her MBA studies in August, released a tribute on Tuesday. Assistant dean Maxwell Rollins shared a recent class assignment in which Apa wrote that she wanted to demonstrate Christ's love and character in both business and everyday life. He said her passion for others and her "heart for Jesus" will continue to inspire students.
University President B. Keith Faulkner said the school is surrounding the Apa family with prayer and support. He added that true peace comes from the Lord, and that her final hours reflected her dedication to helping others as she ran to raise money to fight Parkinson's disease.
Apa ran with the Parkinson's Foundation's Champions team in honor of her grandfather, who died in 2022. She had raised more than $55,000 for the cause.
Charleston Southern said Apa died from rhabdomyolysis, a rare muscle condition. She collapsed near mile 24, about two miles from the finish.
Her former Bucknell field hockey team and her longtime club, Central Penn Field Hockey Club, have also posted tributes, remembering her competitive drive and the joy she brought to the game.
Related Article: Rachel Apa Dies at 24 After NYC Marathon Collapse: What Did Her Final Text Messages Reveal?
