Today, a fellow Boilermaker lost his life and another will spend his in jail.
Tonight, a thousand Boilermakers stood and raised candles in honor of our fallen comrade.

A chill hung in the air on the walk to Hovde Hall and I couldn’t help but think that the night was oddly representative of the day. However, upon arriving at the vigil, we approached a huddled mass of students who stood chatting. Joining this mass, a residual heat began to find its way into my bones. Our fellowship drove out the cold and our solidarity blocked the wind.

In the weeks and months ahead, I have no doubt that we will face many challenges and find answers to many questions. I also believe that, like the cold, we can help each other on this long and difficult road ahead.

The bonds of camaraderie cannot be broken by weapons or hate. They transcend race, orientation, and creed. The bonds of camaraderie burn brightly and protect us from the cold.