Jada Samitt was a passionate environmentalist who graduated from UVM in May 2025 with a degree in Natural Resources from the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources. Shortly after graduation, Jada relocated to Massachusetts, where she began work as a fisheries observer with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, dedicating her early career to protecting marine resources and supporting sustainable fisheries. Jada’s life was cut short tragically on January 30, 2026, when the fishing vessel she was working on, the Lily Jean, was lost at sea 22 miles off the coast of Gloucester.

Born on May 21, 2003, Jada was a spirited young woman whose infectious smile and boundless energy brought joy and laughter to everyone she knew. Jada was aptly named: stemming from the Hebrew word yada, her name signifies wisdom and deep knowing, and in Arabic traditions reflects goodness and generosity — evoking refuge in times of struggle. These meanings were reflected in Jada’s character. She was wise beyond her years, generous in heart, and steadfast in the face of challenge.

Jada did not wait for confidence before stepping up to a challenge — she built confidence by stepping up. She was defined by determination and bravery. If something scared her, she leaned in. If a path felt uncertain, she explored it. If an experience pushed her beyond her comfort zone, she embraced it. Jada understood that courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to move toward it in order to learn and grow.