Malaysia Airlines crash kills Indiana University student Karlijn Keijzer
ROZSYPNE, Ukraine (WLS) -- Indiana University has learned that Karlijn Keijzer, a doctoral student in the chemistry department in the IU College of Arts and Sciences, was among the passengers on Malaysia Airlines Flight 17, which crashed Thursday, leaving no survivors.
"On behalf of the entire Indiana University community, I want to express my deepest sympathies to Karlijn's family and friends over her tragic death," Indiana University President Michael A. McRobbie said. "Karlijn was an outstanding student and a talented athlete, and her passing is a loss to the campus and the university. Our hearts also go out to the families of all the victims of this senseless act."
Keijzer, 25, also earned her master's degree from IU and was a member of the women's rowing team during the 2011 season. Her coach says she was one of the best rowers on the team.
"Obviously when it happened you hear it and it's definitely surreal. I mean she was 25, probably. Just seeming like there was so much in front of her. It's just hard believe," said Steve Peterson, coach.
Keijzer was going on vacation with her boyfriend.Those that knew her say she was always smiling, and loved life.
"I'm just in disbelief and expecting Karlijn to pop up on Facebook and tell everybody she's ok," said Rachel Weigler.
Keijzer was a member of IU's Varsity 8 boat during the 2011 season, helping them to a 14-5 record. She earned Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association Scholar-Athlete honors as well as Academic All-Big Ten accolades following the 2011 season. A decorated junior rower, Keijzer participated in the European Rowing Junior Championships in 2006 and the World Rowing Junior Championships in 2007.
"The Indiana Rowing family is deeply saddened by the news of Karlijn's sudden passing," Indiana head rowing coach Steve Peterson said. "She came to us for one year as a graduate student and truly wanted to pursue rowing. That year was the first year we really started to make a mark with the First Varsity 8 boat, and she was a huge reason for it. She was a phenomenal student and loved IU so much that she stayed here after she earned her master's degree. Our condolences go out to her family and friends in this very tough time."
The majority of those killed on board Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 were Dutch nationals.
The Netherlands Consulate General in Chicago will have a condolence register open to the public on Monday, July 21 and Tuesday, July 22, on both days from 10-12 AM, and 2 to 4 PM at 303 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601-5297.
There is also an online condolence register.
