Honoring the Life and Legacy of Ariana Zarse
On October 9, 2021, the world lost an extraordinary young woman. Ariana Zarse—known as Ari to her friends and family—was tragically taken in a hit-and-run accident, a loss that profoundly affected everyone who knew and loved her. While the circumstances surrounding her death were heartbreaking, Ariana’s memory continues to inspire action and positive change in our community.
Ariana’s vibrant spirit, her love for life, and her dedication to those around her left a lasting mark. At the University of Georgia (UGA), she served as Director of Social Events for Pi Beta Phi Sorority, contributed to on-campus philanthropy events, and was a cherished member of the Saucehouse and Boar’s Head Lounge teams. Her energy, kindness, and generosity continue to remind us of the importance of community, compassion, and standing up for what is right.
In her honor, we have worked to make our community safer. Thanks to persistent advocacy, the East Broad crosswalk near the railroad tracks received long-overdue safety improvements, completed in December 2024. The upgrades include Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) lights, enhanced signage, and refreshed thermoplastic markings. These critical improvements will help prevent future tragedies and ensure safer passage for all residents and students.
A Celebration of Ariana Through Music and Community
On the third Saturday each March, Pi Beta Phi Sorority hosts a special event to honor Ariana’s life and legacy: Ari’s Battle of the Bands. This event, dedicated to her love of music and social events, will bring together the UGA community to celebrate her spirit and raise funds for a cause close to her heart.
All proceeds from the event will benefit The University of Georgia’s Sunshine Fund. Established by a group of UGA parents in 2020 through the university’s Student Care & Outreach, the Sunshine Fund supports the mental well-being of UGA students. It provides financial assistance for mental health services and helps mitigate circumstances negatively affecting students’ well-being. More information about the fund can be found here.
Ariana’s Battle of the Bands promises to be a heartfelt celebration of her life, with live music and a sense of community that Ari would have cherished. Follow @arisbattleofthebands on Instagram for updates and announcements about the event lineup.
Continuing the Fight for Justice
As we remember Ariana, we remain committed to advocating for accountability and systemic change. No parent should endure the loss of a child, especially without justice. Her story is a powerful reminder of why we must come together to protect and uplift our community.
To learn more about Ariana’s story, click here, where her father, Jeff Zarse, shares her incredible journey and the impact of her loss. Ariana’s life continues to inspire us to strive for a better, safer world. Thank you for standing with us in her memory. Together, we can ensure her legacy lives on and make meaningful change in her honor.
#WhyWeCare #ArianasLegacy #JusticeForAriana #SafeAthens