The following message from President Tim Sands was read by Vice President Patty Perillo at the vigil in honor of Nicole Lovell on Monday, Feb. 8, 2016.

To all those gathered here tonight to remember Nicole, thank you. You represent the best of this extraordinary Blacksburg-Virginia Tech community that all of us have grown to cherish because we are truly strong together. From the immediate response by community members and Virginia Tech students, including the Corps of Cadets, to assist in the painful search process, to the extraordinary level of cooperation between law enforcement agencies, this community understands that we can overcome any challenge if we lock arms and work as one.  

And to Ms. Weeks and the family and friends of Nicole, your strength is an inspiration to all of us.  That you would be here to support us in our grieving process - at this time when all is so raw and incomprehensible for you – is among the greatest gifts one person can offer another.  We are all humbled.  You will forever be in our hearts as you are in our community.  

President Tim Sands

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