Remembering Grace Maxwell: A Shining Light

The Cedarville University community is mourning the loss of Grace Maxwell, a junior whose kindness, faith and passion for serving others touched countless lives. 

Maxwell was among the passengers killed in the American Airlines plane crash near Washington Reagan National Airport on Wednesday, Jan. 29. She was returning to campus from her home in Wichita, Kansas, after attending her grandfather’s funeral. 

In an official statement, Cedarville University expressed deep sorrow over her passing: 

“This is heartbreaking news for her family and for our campus community. Grace was a junior majoring in mechanical engineering with a minor in biomedical engineering and was anticipating her graduation in 2026.” 

A resident of Maddox Hall, Maxwell was known for her thoughtful and quiet leadership. She also worked as a grader for mechanical engineering faculty. 

Maxwell was deeply committed to using her skills to help others. This semester, she was scheduled to work on a hand-stabilizing device for a young boy with disabilities, a project that embodied both her technical talent and compassionate heart. In addition to her engineering work, she was actively preparing to spend her spring break in London on a mission trip, sharing her love for Jesus Christ with others. Her desire to serve extended beyond academics, as she sought to make a difference both through innovation and personal outreach. 

“Grace was a quiet person with a keen interest in helping others through engineering,” said Dr. Tim Norman, professor of mechanical engineering. 

Beyond academics, Maxwell made a significant impact on campus. She was a DJ and radio personality for Resound Radio, where her enthusiasm and warm spirit made her a favorite among listeners. She was also a gifted writer and a member of The Inklings, a student organization dedicated to creative writing. Friends remember her as a joyful, caring friend who loved playing games, sharing stories and encouraging those around her. 

During a campus-wide chapel service, Cedarville University President Thomas White spoke about Maxwell’s faith and lasting influence: 

“As it says in Psalm 34, ‘When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them and is near the brokenhearted.’ Our hearts are broken, but we come together as a family knowing the Lord hears our cries and is near us at this very difficult time.” 

Maxwell’s father has asked the Cedarville community for prayers as the family navigates this devastating loss. 

As we grieve, we find comfort in knowing that Grace is with Jesus Christ, and that those who believe in Him will see her again. Though her time on earth was far too short, her faith, kindness and dedication to serving others will never be forgotten. 

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.