Kathryn Petree, an undergraduate student at Rice University’s McMurtry College, passed away Oct. 12 from complications due to cancer. She was a sophomore who studied natural sciences and was on a premedical track.
Petree’s mother shared her gratitude for Rice’s culture of care as she began her journey at Rice.
“Kathryn started at Rice in Spring '24, missing her first semester,” she said. “Her O-week group, Cloudy with a Chance of Murt-Balls, gave her the warmest welcome and instantly included her in their friend group including fellowship and worship on Sundays. Kathryn’s family will be forever grateful for the professors and friends who supported Kathryn to make the most of her time at Rice such a wonderful experience.”
McMurtry College Magister Jenifer Bratter also recalled her relationship with Petree.
“There aren’t words for how much we will miss her,” Bratter said. “Kathryn was a lovely person. We couldn’t be more honored to have her in McMurtry. She was kind, patient, funny and so smart — truly beloved by her friends and her college family. Her warm smile and upbeat personality will always be with us.”
Bratter also elaborated on Petree’s love of science and her dedication to learning despite her diagnosis. Petree’s affinity for chemistry can be traced to her high school education, and it carried through to her time at Rice and the connections she formed throughout Rice’s chemistry department.
“When she found out she needed to reduce her hours for the semester [because of her diagnosis], she insisted on keeping her organic chemistry class because she loved it so much,” Bratter said.
Petree’s devotion extended beyond mastering science and into enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
“A self-described foodie who loved orchestra and enjoyed knitting and crocheting, Kathryn’s positive presence will be greatly missed by those who knew her,” said Bridget Gorman, dean of undergraduates, in a message to the campus community.
Remembering Petree’s joie de vivre, her McMurtry cohorts shared that she perfected a recipe for sourdough bread and recently completed a hiking trip with her mother.
The Petree family will hold a visitation at 5-8 p.m. Oct. 17 at Schmidt Funeral Home, 1344 W. Grand Parkway S. in Katy. A celebration of Petree’s life will take place at 10 a.m. Oct. 18 at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, 20775 Kingsland in Katy.
McMurtry College leadership will release further details to colleagues about ways to honor her.
In light of this news, counselors in the Wellbeing and Counseling Center are available to assist anyone needing support. During business hours, Owls may stop by the center’s offices without an appointment or contact counselors anytime at 713-348-3311. Staff and faculty seeking support are encouraged to contact Rice’s Employee Assistance Program.