To the Esteemed Chancellor of the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and the University Community,

We write with heavy hearts and a sense of urgency in the wake of a profound tragedy – the untimely loss of Akul Dhawan. Akul, an 18-year-old freshman from San Mateo, California, with a passion for robotics and a bright future in electrical engineering, met a tragic end on campus. This petition seeks not only answers but also action from our university leadership to ensure the safety and well-being of every student entrusted to our institution.

On January 21, 2024, Akul Dhawan was found deceased, hours after being reported missing. His last known location was near the Canopy Club in Urbana, with harsh winter conditions prevailing that night. The discovery of his body on a university building's porch, following a delay in locating him, has raised grave concerns among students and parents alike.

His parents, Ish and Ritu Dhawan, are grappling with unbearable grief. They seek clarity on the circumstances leading to their son’s tragic demise, especially focusing on the response of the university's police department. Their story, as told to The News-Gazette, paints a picture of a diligent, technology-enthused young man whose life ended prematurely under circumstances that warrant a thorough investigation.

In light of this tragedy, we, the university community, urgently call upon you, Chancellor, to initiate a comprehensive and transparent inquiry into the university's response on that fateful night. We demand a review and improvement of protocols concerning missing students, especially during extreme weather conditions. It is imperative that our campus be a safe haven, where prompt and effective actions are taken to protect our students in times of crisis.

The loss of Akul Dhawan has not only devastated his family but has also sent shockwaves through our community. It starkly reminds us of our collective vulnerability and the paramount importance of timely, decisive action in emergencies. This tragedy compels us to introspect and fortify our campus safety measures, ensuring no other family endures such a grievous loss.

In honor of Akul Dhawan's memory, and to uphold the safety and security of every student on our campus, we urge you to address these concerns with the utmost urgency. By signing this petition, we stand together in seeking a safer, more responsive university environment. Let our collective voices lead to meaningful change.