In a video sent to the University community, University President Jim Ryan formally invited community members to a tolling of the Chapel bells at 12:55 p.m. Monday in memory of football players and University students Devin Chandler, Lavel Davis Jr. and D’Sean Perry, who died in last year’s shooting.
Ryan asked everyone to pause from routine activities when the bells chime Monday, and to join him in a moment of silence and reflection. The moment will be livestreamed for those who cannot be in person.
“It’s my hope that this will be a chance for the entire community to join one another in remembrance,” Ryan said in the video.
Monday marks the one-year anniversary of last year’s shooting that resulted in three student fatalities and two injured — University students Mike Hollins and Marlee Morgan.
Ryan said there is no right way to observe the day. He mentioned a number of events on Grounds that will be held throughout the day for those who wish to gather, including an open house for students at Carr’s Hill from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m..
The bells will be preceded by a panel discussion in Old Cabell Hall about healing from gun violence hosted by the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy. The panelists — who have all been personally affected by gun violence — will include Happy Perry, D’Sean Perry’s mother. The event will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and prior registration is requested.
Other events include an opportunity for students to leave reflections and messages on a U.Va. Strong banner that will be available on South Lawn starting at 1 p.m. There will also be an opportunity for community members to gather on the Lawn from 7 to 9 p.m. to hear reflections from the teammates of Chandler, Davis Jr. and Perry.
“Nothing can bring back Devin, Lavel and D’Sean,” Ryan said. “But we can honor them, as well as Mike and Marlee, by remembering. We can honor them by holding those who are still grieving close to our hearts. And we can honor them by supporting one another.”
Read More
The ‘Batten Curve’ — what’s the big deal?
By Bennett Galper and Nina Broderick | 19 hours agoBatten students are also involved in conversations about potential policy changes, with some taking an active role in advocacy efforts.
One win away from bowl game eligibility, football hosts No. 13 Southern Methodist
By Ryan Weiner | 20 hours agoIn their home finale, the Cavaliers have a lot to play for.
UJC sees “major influx” of cases with 38 adjudicated so far this term
By Ford McCracken | YesterdayAlongside an increase in cases, the Committee saw increased interest during recruitment
