May 8, 2026 - News
Slain USF students given commencement memorial and posthumous degrees
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Photo: University of South Florida
Two empty chairs with green, black and gold regalia represented two slain University of South Florida students at Friday's doctoral degree commencement ceremony.
- Nahida Bristy and Zamil Limon, both 27 and from Bangladesh, will also receive posthumous doctoral degrees, the university said.
- Bristy was studying chemical engineering, while Limon was working toward a degree in geography, environmental science and policy.
Catch up quick: Authorities found the remains of the students last month, soon after a friend reported them missing.
- Hisham Abugharbieh, 26, faces two counts of first-degree murder, among other charges, according to police. He, Limon and a third roommate shared an apartment off campus.
- Abugharbieh remains in jail with no bail. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty in his case, court records show.
Zoom in: Friends and professors remembered Limon as hardworking and quick to laugh, the Tampa Bay Times reported.
- Bristy was smart and enthusiastic and was always helping new graduate students get used to life on campus. She was also a musician who loved to sing, per WUSF.
- Limon's co-adviser started a GoFundMe for their families.
What they're saying: "We had a dream that we'll always be together and will progress in our life together," said Mohammad Omer Hossain, who was close to both students, WUSF reported.
- "Here I'm alone — just carrying their memories and all of our happy moments. I will cherish all those (memories) throughout my entire life."
