The University of North Texas community is remembering a recent graduate after a weekend celebration with friends ended in tragedy. 22-year-old Anurup Koduru drowned during an East Texas getaway. It was just a month ago that Ashrith Koduru was walking UNT’s campus with his brother, celebrati ng Anurup’s graduation. “He was graduating with a master’s in computer science,” he said. Now, he’s reflecting on a life cut short. “He was proud. We were all proud of him. He was the smart kid in our house,” said Koduru. On May 29, Anurup was with friends at the Toledo Bend Dam near the Sabine River and the Louisiana border. It wasn’t his first visit, but it was his first without his brother. “I was sleeping and I got a call from him,” said Koduru. “He has his iPhone in his hand, and he was jumping into the water with the phone, and, he was laughing and, you know, and they were all dancing… I was happy looking at him, but right after that, in five minutes, I think I got a call that he had gone missing.” According to the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office, seven agencies assisted in the search, but it was too late. Koduru says Anurup was helping drowning friends when his foot caught on a wire that pulled him under. “He would always try to help people,” he said. As a student, Anurup worked as a public safety officer for UNT Police. Sr. Vice Presidents, Division of Student Affairs, Elizabeth With, released a statement: “…he exemplified dedication, compassion and service to others. We are deeply saddened by his loss, and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by his kindness and generosity. His memory will remain an enduring part of our university community.” Perhaps that’s why, in the wake of his death, donations flooded in to return his body to his parents in Hyderabad, India. “I was so happy that people and God and everyone is with me at this point,” said Koduru. Koduru said his brother dreamed of traveling. He cherished the adventures they shared and plans more to keep his brother’s memory alive. ...read more read less