compiled by
Dawei Wang, a 2015 MRSD graduate, was a remarkable individual known for his unwavering dedication, humility, excellence, and brilliance. As a student in the MRSD program, Dawei excelled in challenging projects and inspired both his professors and peers with his meticulous approach and high standards. His technical expertise in robotics was not confined to himself; he generously shared his knowledge, helping fellow students as a TA and bringing everyone to the forefront. Dawei’s humility and generous spirit were evident in his willingness to help others, always sharing his knowledge and supporting his friends.
A valued member of Oculus Research/Meta, he climbed the ladder of success at an unprecedented rate under the guidance of respected leaders, later serving as a role model for others aspiring to reach similar heights. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dawei was cherished for his kindness and adventurous spirit, leaving behind memories of shared moments and valuable lessons.
His untimely passing is a significant loss, yet his legacy continues to inspire all who knew him. This tribute has been compiled by his friends, peers, and professors who worked closely with him and remember him as a dear friend, a kind mentor, and a brilliant intellect, a lasting memory. Although his passing has left us in immense shock, we are grateful for the time he was part of our lives—a presence that changed them forever.
Director of the MRSD program at the CMU Robotics Institute, where Dawei studied.
October 6, 2024
“Like all of us, I was very shocked and sad to learn from MRSD alumna Sida Wang about Dawei’s premature death from a heart attack. The picture in my mind is of him at the MRSD lab bench in the second room toward the back during a Progress Review, presenting or presiding genially over his team’s technical progress. He and his team chose the challenging topic of grasp detection and did a great job at it. After graduation, Dawei was a prized employee at Oculus Research/Meta, and that was no mean feat under the strict eye of his boss Yaser Sheikh, who was inspired by Dawei’s excellent performance there to continue to seek MRSD graduates who might emulate his exceptional skills and contributions. I have been impressed by the number of students who have spoken of Dawei’s generous spirit of helpfulness. His passing is a loss to many, but I’m thankful for the strong imprint he has left on our lives.”
Dawei’s classmate in the Robotics MRSD program at CMU and a teammate in the capstone project.
September 22, 2024
“When I first heard the news, the first memory that surfaced was of the following PowerPoint slide. At the time, the homework Dawei had worked on was completed so perfectly that the professor used it as an example in their presentation.
Dawei’s standards for code quality were incredibly high, and he never left any detail of knowledge unexplored. If something wasn’t fully understood, he would always trace it back to its fundamental principles. He refused to take shortcuts—everything he did was thorough and well-grounded. At the same time, he remained humble, constantly questioning himself and never s’eeking to show off. Whenever I hit roadblocks and feel like giving up, I always ask myself, ‘What would Dawei do?’
Dawei was the one who came up with the name Team Evolutus and even designed its logo.
Perhaps it’s true that the good die young.”
Dawei’s classmate in the Robotics MRSD program at CMU
September 23, 2024
“Thank you, Dawei. Thank you for your contributions to the MRSD family. Your brilliance was so radiant, and your humility, kindness, and willingness to help others were even more admirable. I remember when we faced challenging coursework or struggled to understand research papers, you were always one of the few who had the insight to grasp things quickly. Whenever I or anyone else came to you for help, you never acted superior or showed any impatience. You were always eager to assist, patiently explaining and generously sharing your knowledge, inspiring others along the way.
It is heartbreaking that you left us so soon. I hope we can continue your positive impact by being more humble, kind, and helpful. May you rest in peace in heaven.”
Dawei’s classmate in the Robotics MRSD program at CMU
September 24, 2024
“I remember Dawei playing Minecraft! That May, a few friends went camping in a park in Pennsylvania, and Dawei was especially enthusiastic about building and tending the fire. He carefully stacked the firewood, and thanks to his efforts, the fire burned strong and bright. 🔥”
Dawei’s classmate in the Robotics MRSD program at CMU
October 9, 2024
“Dawei was always very polite, kind, and humble. He was patient with answering all of our questions. I remember him as the machine learning genius. I have this distinct memory of him solving an ant-sized jig-saw 1,000-piece puzzle when I visited his home once. He always liked a good challenge.
I took a selfie with most of our MRSD colleagues after our last class before graduating MRSD. The one with Dawei (and Yuan in the background) is from after the Holi celebration.”
October 9, 2024
“During my time at MRSD, I personally looked up to Dawei, as I was eager to work at Oculus back then and he was one of the select-few who had made it to Meta. It was heartbreaking when I read about his passing. It’s a big loss to the MRSD community, and I send my deepest condolences to his family members.”
a junior of Dawei from the Department of Engineering Physics at Tsinghua University, and also junior of Dawei from Robotics MRSD program at CMU
September 17, 2024
“Today, Dawei Wang has left us. His life, like a shooting star, was brief yet brilliant, illuminating everything in its path.
During my time in the Department of Engineering Physics at Tsinghua for my undergrad, I grew up hearing the name of Dawei, or as everyone fondly called him, “Big Chairman.” He was admired by all. I was fortunate to once again join with Dawei in the CMU MRSD program during my master’s studies. Right after I arrived in Pittsburgh for my MRSD program, Dawei gave me a tour of the campus, treated me to a warm meal, and guided me through the five courses I’d need for my first semester. He even became the teaching assistant for my computer vision course, patiently answering my questions. Having such an outstanding mentor made me feel incredibly fortunate as his junior.
After graduation from MRSD, both Dawei and I stayed in Pittsburgh to work. We, along with a few other friends, would sometimes gather to enjoy hotpot or go cycling together. How I cherish those times. I wonder, can time ever truly go back?
Dawei excelled in his career. A few years ago, he had already risen to the level of M2 at Meta—a senior manager. He was proud of his accomplishments and rightly so. Wherever Dawei went, he shone like a bright star, leaving a trail of success behind him.
Dawei once shared with me his dream of returning to China to start his own business, and I never doubted for a moment that he would have become a great entrepreneur. But perhaps this world was too small for your boundless dreams, or too fragile to bear the weight of your noble soul. And so, you left us far too soon. The winds have carried you away, along with your grand visions.
May you continue to chase your dreams in the next world, Dawei. May you find the girl who will cherish your heart as much as your ambition. May there be no pain in that world—only the radiance of your bright spirit, unfettered and free.
In this broken world, I wish for your parents the strength to carry on, for they have raised a remarkable son. Dawei will always be in my heart – my cherished friend, my respected senior, and my shining example. Dawei, may you rest well on your journey.”
a junior of Dawei from the Robotics MRSD program at CMU
October 1, 2024
“Dawei Wang was my senior and TA for Computer Vision in fall 2015, and he was one of the most inspiring individuals I’ve ever met. I remember often seeing him on campus at odd hours, tirelessly dedicated and focused. His energy was boundless, and he had a remarkable ability to dive deeply into any problem. Dawei was always ready to help anyone who needed it, with a knack for knowing just the right answers. A true genius with exceptional social skills—a rare and impressive combination—I am grateful for the lasting impression he left on me in the short time we knew each other. Dawei, you will be missed. I’ll do my best to carry forward your spirit of passion, selflessness, and drive to achieve great things. Thank you, Dawei, for crossing paths with me. You are missed.”
