"I came just to support the whole Virginia Tech community and show we’re one big family," said Jenna Nichols, 19, a Tech sophomore from Honaker, Va. "Every tragedy brings people together and brings families together. This is one big family."
Determined To Prevail
The solemn ceremony focused on the effect the tragedy has had on the Tech community and its determination to move forward.
"On April 16, the peace that comes with learning was shattered on our campus and the academy forever changed," said Zenobia Hikes, vice president for Student Affairs. "Our hearts have been crushed, our spirits shaken and our minds and bodies left weary.
"Today, we join together as a community to honor, commemorate and pay tribute to the talented minds of those innocent individuals who were taken from us far too soon," she said.
Valerie Hardcastle, president of the Virginia Tech Faculty Senate, said the memorial would not only serve as a constant reminder of the bright lives lost, but also as evidence of the community’s ability to overcome.
"It is my hope that this memorial signals that, as a community, we are very, very strong," Hardcastle said. "We are very committed and we will always prevail. We are Virginia Tech!"