Columbia announces candelight vigil for Olivia Erhardt, Daniella Moffson and Abigail Flanagan

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Below is a message Dean James J. Valentini shared with the Columbia College Community:

Dear Members of the Columbia College Community,

We continue to mourn the loss of the three Columbia community members who lost their lives in Honduras last week. As a reminder, the University will hold a candlelight vigil at 6 p.m. tonight (Tuesday, Jan. 19) on Low Plaza to honor the memories of Columbia College student Olivia Erhardt, Barnard College student Daniella Moffson, and Columbia College parent, General Studies student and CUMC nurse Abigail Flanagan.

The vigil will begin with the tolling of the chapel bells and will include student speakers from Columbia College, Barnard College, the School of General Studies and the School of Nursing. Following the vigil, Earl Hall and St. Paul's Chapel will be open as gathering spaces, and counselors will be available. Light refreshments will be served at Earl Hall.

We expect that some press may be present at the vigil, or possibly on public sidewalks outside of campus during the day. Please know that University staff will be on hand at the vigil to help ensure that media maintain respectful boundaries.

Our deepest condolences go out to those who knew Olivia, Abigail and Daniella. They will be in our thoughts today, and in the days and weeks ahead.

Sincerely,
Dean Valentini

 

As a reminder, the following resources are available to students: