The Universe mourns the loss of staff member and friend Brynn Carnesecca

The Universe family is heartbroken as we mourn the loss of our dear friend, colleague and fellow student, Brynn Carnesecca.

Brynn was an exceptional journalist, a gifted storyteller and a beloved member of our newsroom. Her talent, dedication and genuine kindness enriched our staff in countless ways. She approached every assignment with professionalism, curiosity and compassion, earning the respect and admiration of everyone who had the opportunity to work with her. More importantly, Brynn was a wonderful friend whose warmth and generous spirit made the Universe a better place.

As we grieve this tremendous loss, our hearts are especially with Brynn’s sister, Cate, who is also a treasured friend, fellow student and member of our Universe staff. We extend our deepest love, prayers and heartfelt condolences to Cate, the Carnesecca family and all who are mourning Brynn’s passing.

Brynn’s legacy will live on through the stories she told, the lives she touched and the example she set for those around her. She will always be remembered as a cherished member of the Universe family, and she will be deeply missed.

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Brynn Carnesecca waves to a crowd at the Miss Utah pageant. She served as Miss American Fork in 2024 and was named Miss Congeniality in the 2025 Miss Utah pageant. (Photo courtesy of Brynn Carnesecca / via Facebook)

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Brynn and Cate Carnesecca sit behind the anchor desk in The Universe's broadcast newsroom. The sisters anchored newscasts and reported on events happening both on campus and in the community. (Photo courtesy of Cate Carnesecca)

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Brynn Carnesecca embraces Miss Utah's Honeybees during the 2024 Miss Utah pageant week. Brynn Carnesecca created "Envelopes of Hope," a pen pal program for inmates in Utah. (Photo courtesy of Brynn Carnesecca / via Facebook)

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Brynn and Cate Carnesecca report for The Universe's "Food Review Friday." Brynn Carnesecca worked as social media reporter for the organization. (The Universe)

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Brynn Carnesecca, 21, passed away on July 26. She studied communications with an emphasis in journalism with a minor in editing at Brigham Young University. (Photo courtesy of the Carnesecca family)

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To read the full obituary click here. To donate, click here. The GoFundMe is to cover funeral expenses and support the family.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, where trained counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Crisis hotlines
Suicide and Crisis LifeLine: 988
SafeUT Crisis Line: 833-372-3388
Huntsman Mental Health Institute Crisis Line: 801-587-3000

Crisis links
For Students in Crisis
Crisis and Treatment - Utah Suicide Prevention Committee and Coalition