On National Daughters Day, Brandenburg honored his daughters, Tori and Eva, emphasizing the significant role that former Cal Poly track star Shelby Daniele played in Eva’s decision to join the university’s track team. He referred to Daniele as the “driving force” behind Eva’s choice.

Shelby Daniele sadly passed away on September 25 at the young age of 23. The Mayo Clinic defines a brain aneurysm as a bulge in a blood vessel that can pose a life-threatening risk if it ruptures; however, the specific cause of Daniele’s death was not revealed.

Daniele was an exceptional athlete at Cal Poly, having set the school’s indoor 200m record last year with a time of 24.69 seconds. She represented the Mustangs from 2020 to 2024, held the position of team captain, received six All-Big West honors, and secured two Big West championships.

In addition to her athletic achievements, Daniele graduated with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture in 2023 and completed her master’s degree this past June. She also contributed to her family’s almond and walnut farm in Caruthers as a Field Assistant Manager.

Cal Poly’s athletic department expressed profound grief over her passing, remembering her for her “remarkable heart and spirit.” They commended her leadership, commitment, and the positive influence she had on her teammates and the community.

The university extended its condolences to Daniele’s family and friends, highlighting that she was “truly one of a kind” and will be greatly missed by the entire Cal Poly community.

Rest in peace, Shelby Daniele.