United: A Remembrance Program

Dear UNC Charlotte Community,

I hope this message finds you and your loved ones healthy and well. As a city, a nation, and a global community, we continue to grapple with the effects of COVID-19 and the impact it has brought to our daily lives. As an institution, we are focused on making decisions that protect the health and safety of our 49er community. Unfortunately, the current “stay at home” environment alters our scheduled plans to observe the one-year anniversary of April 30, a tragic day in our campus history.

Though we will not be able to conduct planned remembrance ceremonies in person, it doesn’t mean the day will have any less significance. Perseverance is a trademark of Niner Nation, and we are committed to finding meaningful ways to honor the lives lost and all those affected. Indeed, in this unprecedented time, it is more critical than ever.

On April 30, 2020, at 5:10 p.m., we will recognize the day with “United: A Remembrance Program” through a virtual event that pays tribute to Reed Parlier and Riley Howell, and honors Drew, Emily, Rami and Sean, and all the students in the classroom that day. As we move closer to the event, additional information and direct links will be provided through email, Inside UNC Charlotte and the University’s social media channels.

The program will feature Student Body President Chandler Crean and Student Body Vice President Adela Mann, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Kevin Bailey, and a special appearance from CBS News correspondent and alum, Don Dahler ’91. In addition, we will present an artistic video created by faculty member Jeff Murphy and accompanied by an original composition written by faculty member John Allemeier, as well as musical performances by “Water From Fire” featuring alumni John Woodall ’14 and Kevin Brawley ’13. You can view all of the bios and program details on the Niner Nation Remembers website.

Although I am disappointed that original plans for remembering April 30 cannot be realized, the enduring spirit of Niner Nation is one of resilience; we will get through this time together. We hope you will join us on April 30 for this day of remembrance.

Sincerely,

Philip L. Dubois
Chancellor