The Seahawk

Issue date: 4/24/08 Section: News

Media Credit: Chris Carlton

True hearts are the ones that pound so loudly the whole world can hear them. In light of the tragic events of this year and remembering those of years past, the students of UNCW came together to remember friends and loved ones lost.

On Wednesday, April 16, 2008, exactly one year since the Virginia Tech tragedy, a vigil called the SGA Campus Tragedy Memorial was held in honor of those lost within the past year. Encircled by three themes-Remembrance, Unity and Empowerment-the vigil was held on the campus commons under the clock tower. Flags were placed in the ground all around the event. Exactly 32 flags were placed for those from Virginia Tech, five for those from Northern Illinois University, one for Eve Carson from UNC-Chapel Hill, and of course, one for Annie McLeod, a fellow Seahawk.

Although all of these tragedies hit home, none hurt more deeply than to lose one of our own. A special tribute to McLeod was held the previous evening in the amphitheatre in front of the Fisher Student Center. Friends, family and fellow students gathered at 7 p.m. to honor McLeod with speeches, songs and a candlelight vigil.

Opening McLeod's vigil, Jeanette Tavares stated, "When Annie McLeod walked into a room, you noticed; when she spoke, you listened; when she said she loved you, you knew she meant it."

The evidence of McLeod's impact on the university was apparent. A sociology major and a sister of the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority, Annie was busy with many things.

"Annie always had a smile on her face and enjoyed doing things for others instead of herself," said Gina Difeterici, McLeod's friend and roommate. "She was such a selfless person, and put everyone and anyone before herself."

Following Tavares' opening speech was Rev. Nancy Cooper of the United Christian Campus Ministry.

"She is remembered with a positive attitude through the most stressful moments, and such an encouragement to her sisters," Cooper said.

Although he couldn't be present, McLeod's close friend Jason Williams said on her behalf as the song "Jeremiah's Prayer" played in the background, "Don't cry, but just look up and smile at her because she is definitely smiling down on us."

Not long after the end of "Jeremiah's Prayer," a special song beloved by McLeod was sung by three of her friends, Stephanie Rezac, Mary Catherine Tucker and Gina Difeterici. "Friends are Friends Forever," a song that Annie loved to play during recruitment, filled the air and hearts of the hundred or so attendees. All listened and remembered a dear friend and fellow classmate.

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