Hokie Nation remembers April 16
The Hokie Nation gathered on April 16 in Blacksburg and across the nation and world to remember the 32 victims who died on April 16, 2007.
Severe weather canceled the annual Run in Remembrance, but several hundred of the more than 9,000 people registered ran the 3.2-mile course anyway. Although weather also forced the student-run community picnic inside, more than 1,000 students, alumni, and university community members attended.
Throughout the day, a variety of “Expressions of Remembrance” honored the victims. The Contemporary Dance Ensemble sponsored a Performing Arts Showcase honoring the victims, while exhibits and videos on each person were featured at venues across campus. The University Commemoration and Candlelight Vigil was held just before dusk.
A number of family members of victims attended campus events, while others watched via the Burruss Hall webcam. Others participated in local events in their areas. Families who were on campus also took part in private events.
From Atlanta to Iowa to Seattle, and even in Afghanistan, alumni held their own 3.2 Run in Remembrance events. In support of Hokie Nation Serves, alumni chapters held community service events throughout April, such as blood drives, HokieBird Fights Hunger activities, and community clean-up projects.
At 11:28 p.m., Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets members stood guard for 32 minutes before extinguishing the ceremonial candle and returning the light to Burruss Hall, signifying Virginia Tech’s commitment to never forget the 32 lives lost.
