Tragedy Hits Virginia Tech

On April 16, 2007 America’s eyes turned to Blacksburg, VA as a young man killed 32 students before turning the gun on himself. While the reasons for his actions may never be known, the effects are reaching all across the country. St. Ambrose University has felt the ripples along with everyone else.

Sherrie Spillman, a third generation Hokie, from SAU International Student Services department is alumni of Virginia Tech and still communicates with people there.

“They are still in shock, crisis mode and caregiver mode. They are trying to do this while still dealing with their own issues,” Spillman says.

Spillman also commented on what makes Virginia Tech special.

“It’s a larger university with around 26,000 students but still has the feel of a smaller campus. They do a good job of making it feel smaller than it actually is.”

Even students with out connections to Virginia Tech feel its impact.

“It was terrible. There was a way to prevent it because how much they knew about him.” Jessica Hansen said. Hansen is a first year student at SAU.

Different groups are trying to help survivors and the victim’s families. A number of comedians are traveling to Blacksburg to give a benefit concert and an account has been set up on Facebook to donate money.

“I’ve joined the group on Facebook. A bunch of people from my floor have,” Hansen says.

“There has been an outpouring from around the world,” Spillman agrees.

Students from SAU are also encouraged to send an email to the campus ministry to be collected and forwarded on to Virginia Tech. Rev. Chuck Adams, who collected the emails, also commented.

“So far, there have been about 40 messages. My reaction was one of sadness for the victims, their families and the Virginia Tech community,” Adams said.

Alex Backes is a senior at SAU. He has participated in building homes in David, KY with students from Virginia Tech.

“I know that often times the other schools that go to Kentucky do not have the same work ethic Ambrosians do. However, the students from Virginia Tech were one of the few groups that worked hard and truly cared about making a difference there. That makes it so sad that this massacre happened there. I know at least the group who went to David were very good people, so that makes these events so very sad to me. I feel bad for their entire university community and wish them the best as they recover.”

Eileen Eitrheim is also a graduate of Virginia Tech. She has been in contact with members of the Theater Department.

“I am proud of the administration, the local police and the counseling department. They are grateful for the outpouring of care and for the thoughts and prayers. They take comfort in the joined feelings and the services being held around the world. They are adamant about holding graduation. The victims will all receive their diplomas posthumously. They want to use graduation as a celebration of life and their accomplishments.”

Perhaps then, Hokie nation can look forward.

To donate through Facebook follow this link:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2381135729

To send a message to Virginia Tech:

mailto:ministry@sau.edu