On Oct. 5, Rowan University hosted a vigil to honor those who have lost their lives to COVID-19. Students, faculty, and community members joined to remember and mourn the lives of over 700,000 individuals. 

The Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, The Wellness Center, Student Affairs, The Student Government Association, and The Faculty Center set up this vigil at Memorial Circle. 

Over a dozen people attended the vigil in person and others joined online. All those who attended, in person or virtual, were welcome to share their thoughts, feelings, and personal stories. 

Those who decided to speak, and share poems, music, or words of wisdom moved the crowd with their heartfelt and sincere stories of personal, community, and societal struggle throughout the pandemic.

Alex BuHer, a fourth-year student, and assistant vice president of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, was one of the speakers. BuHer shared his story of personal struggle throughout the pandemic and his hopes for the future. 

”We tend to each other as a community and [need to] be there for each other,” BuHer said.

Another one of the members, who did not publicly speak, but played an important role in tonight’s event was Matthew Beck. Matthew is also a fourth-year student at Rowan University and the president of the Student Government Association. 

“I hope this can be a lesson for everyone and that we keep in mind everyone we have lost,” Beck said.

Despite gray skies and rainy weather, the vigil reminded members to hold hope close to their hearts. 

For more information on the Coronavirus Disease, safety tips, and how to schedule testing, call The Wellness Center at (856)-256-4333. 

For comments/questions about this story tweet @TheWhitOnline.