The Duquesne University community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Shayna Maya Bennett, who passed away on March 26, 2026. A dedicated law student with a bright future ahead, Shayna’s untimely passing has left a profound void among her family, friends, classmates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Shayna was in the midst of pursuing her dream of becoming an attorney at Duquesne Law School. Her passion for the law was fueled by a deep desire to advocate for those who could not speak for themselves, especially children. She aspired to use her legal education to give a voice to the voiceless and ensure that no child was left behind. Her unwavering commitment to justice and compassion made her not only a promising student but also a truly inspiring individual.
Shayna graduated Cum Laude from Hofstra University in May 2025, where she demonstrated both academic excellence and a strong dedication to her goals. Her transition from undergraduate studies to law school reflected her intelligence, determination, and desire to make a meaningful impact on the world.
Beyond her academic achievements, Shayna was loved for her infectious laugh, radiant smile, and caring heart. She had a remarkable ability to uplift those around her, bringing warmth and positivity to every space she entered. Her kindness and empathy were evident in her everyday interactions, leaving lasting impressions on friends, peers, and mentors alike.
Family was the cornerstone of Shayna’s life. She shared a close and loving bond with her parents, Nate and Jamie Bennett, and her sisters, Bailey and Eliana Bennett, who were not only her siblings but also her closest friends and role models. The unwavering support they shared formed a strong foundation that Shayna cherished deeply. She also found joy in spending time with her extended family, including her aunts, uncles, and cousins, creating memories that will be cherished forever.
Shayna’s Jewish faith played a central role in shaping her values and guiding her life’s journey. She was an active and proud member of several organizations that reflected both her faith and her professional aspirations, including BBYO, the Jewish Law Association at Duquesne University, the Women’s Law Association, and Hillel at Hofstra University. Through these affiliations, Shayna built meaningful relationships and contributed to communities that aligned with her beliefs and passions.
She is survived by her loving parents, her sisters, and her extended family, including her Aunt Haliel Selig, Uncle Steven Selig, cousins Yishai, Jonah, and Sivia, as well as her uncles David (Mindy) Bennett and Steven (Terri) Bennett. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Don and Judie Selig, Tilden Bennett, and Judy Spahr.
Funeral services will be held at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., located at 5509 Centre Avenue in Shadyside, on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Agudath Achim Cemetery in Forest Hills. There will be no visitation prior to the service.
Though her life was tragically cut short, Shayna Maya Bennett’s legacy of compassion, determination, and commitment to making a difference will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all those she touched.