Shemaiah Domingo Palma, a senior majoring in biochemistry and member of the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets, died Sept. 2. The Woodbridge, Virginia, resident was 21 years old.

Shemaiah was on track to graduate in 2027 with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry. Her love of service guided her membership in many student organizations on campus where she served as a peer mentor for Sexual Violence Prevention Education and as the co-sisterhood director in the service sorority of Omega Phi Alpha. As a Filipino immigrant, Shemaiah was proud to represent her culture as the public affairs officer for the Asian American Cadet Organization, where she promoted representation and education with other multicultural organization within Virginia Tech. 

As an advancement intern for the corps from May 2024 to spring 2025, Shemaiah helped manage student scholarship awards and coordinate alumni events. She also brought countless smiles to customers as a student worker at the Starbucks kiosk at Squires Food Court.

A member of Naval ROTC, Shemaiah was the information officer for the midshipmen battalion. Throughout her time in the Corps of Cadets, she was a member of Kilo, Foxtrot, and Headquarters companies, and served as the officer in charge of the Cadet Alumni Team. 

“Shemaiah was a bright shining light for everyone around her. She always had a smile and made sure those around her were smiling, too. She loved to help others and brought such positive energy to everything she touched,” said Kelley Corvin, chief advancement officer for the corps.

Beyond her many accomplishments, Shemaiah will be remembered for the person she was — genuine, kindhearted, selfless, and always willing to help others. Her warmth and compassion touched many lives, and the love and light she shared will remain with her family, friends, fellow cadets, classmates, and everyone fortunate enough to have known her.

A viewing and visitation will be held on Sept. 27-28 from 5 to 9 p.m. and funeral services will follow on Tuesday, Sept. 29 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Fairhaven Memorial Services at 27856 Center Drive in Mission Viejo, California. A livestream link will be provided for those unable to attend in person.

An on-campus celebration of life will be held Oct. 1 at 4:45 p.m. in Burruss Hall Auditorium.

Members of the university community who seek support or assistance are encouraged to contact these resources:

  • Aetna at 888-238-6232

  • Kaiser Permanente at 866-517-7042

  • Sentara Health Plans Vantage HMO at 800-899-8174 

  • Hokie Wellness at 540-231-2233 (students) or 540-231-8878 (employees)

 

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