McMaster community remembers graduate Jet’aime Fray-Samuel as a bright light

A beloved alumna is being remembered for her kindness and engaging presence in Hamilton and within the McMaster community.

Jet’aime Fray-Samuel, a 22-year-old recent McMaster graduate, volunteer, and colleague, was tragically killed in a car accident on November 13.

Those who knew the Social Psychology graduate remember her as incredibly active. She worked at McMaster throughout her four years of undergraduate studies, mentored and provided homework help to school age children, and always made time for her friends and loved ones.

Faith Ogunkoya, Manager of Black Student Success at McMaster, worked with Jet’aime on a number of occasions, including training for a Student Leaders program on campus.

“Jet’aime was selfless — a real gift to this generation. Her impact on staff, students, faculty will continue to be felt for years.  Not only was she thoughtful in her approach, but she was also incredibly gracious with her time, patience, and service to the community,” said Ogunkoya.

Jet’aime fully immersed herself in student life, getting the most out of her experience. She was a proud member of Nu Omega Zeta, which is founded on pillars of sisterhood, volunteerism, and knowledge. Part of Jet’aime’s role was conducting tours of McMaster with Black high school students looking for the opportunity to visit and ask questions.

“Jet’aime became involved with Nu Omega Zeta in 2018 and has since become a dear friend to many of us,” said Danielle Hassan, President Nu Omega Zeta. “Whenever someone needed help, she was the first to lend a hand, and despite her heavy workload with academics and employment, she always found time to spend with us and give back. She truly embodied our group pillars and set an example for the next generation of sisters to be upstanding, contributing members of the Hamilton community.”

“Jet’aime was a one-of-a-kind individual, from her personality, her actions, her values, all the way down to her name. She will be in our hearts forever.”

Jet’aime received both the 2021 President’s Award of Student Excellence and the President’s Award for Outstanding Service. The latter she received alongside her colleagues in McMaster’s Accounts Receivable.

“During her four years of undergraduate studies, Jet’aime worked as a valued member of our team and was the face that graciously helped so many of our staff, students and customers,” said Dianna Creamer, Manager Accounts Receivable. “The work that she did advocating for efficiencies on behalf of students was an incredibly significant contribution to our President’s Award for Outstanding Service.”

Jet’aime had recently enrolled in teacher’s college, a future perfectly suited to her many talents, according to her former social psychology professor, Sarah Clancy.

“I fondly remember how engaged Jet’aime was at recruitment events, eager to talk to potential incoming students. I was thrilled when Jet’aime informed me of her plans to apply to teacher’s college and felt very honoured to write her a recommendation letter as I knew the positive impact she would have on the lives of children—and how much they would benefit from having her as an educator,” said Clancy.

“Jet’aime was a passionate and engaged student as well as an active and engaged social citizen, positively impacting, and changing the lives of others.”

Jet’aime’s family has started a McMaster memorial fund to honour the extraordinary legacy that she leaves behind. To donate, visit the website.

The entire McMaster community extends deepest condolences to Jet’aime’s family, friends and loved ones.