One year ago, 32 Virginia Tech Hokies were killed by a gunman on campus. One year later, hundreds of thoughtful Huskies stood together at the Huskies for Hokies candlelight vigil in honor of the 32 people who died on April 16, 2007 in Blacksburg, Va.

NIU and VT are united through similar tragedies, and through sentiments expressed at Wednesday’s NIU vigil, all both schools can do is heal while never forgetting those whose lives were lost.

“It’s bad it took such a tragedy to unite us, but it’s good to know [Virginia Tech] is here for us and we are here for them,” said Cristina Rodriguez, senior psychology major.

NIU President John Peters said that out of all the acts of kindness NIU received after Feb. 14, the support Virginia Tech provided NIU touched him the most deeply.

“Many of us felt an odd sense of isolation after Feb. 14. So profound was our shock and grief we thought no one could understand what we were going through,” Peters said. “The tremendous outpouring of countless calls and e-mails from Virginia Tech made me realize we are not alone.”

Brittany Brzezinski, a senior communications major who spoke at the event, said she feels a strong sense of unity with Virginia Tech.

“I will forever remain a Huskie, but I will always remain a Hokie,” said Brzezinski.

Brzezinski believes that each individual can help make a difference in preventing future tragedies.

“I challenge you to look at your own life and goals,” she said. “Ask yourself what you can do to make a difference.”

NIU Student Association President Jarvis Purnell expressed with great grief how he feels following the two tragedies.

“We are survivors and it is our duty to pay our respects to those who are no longer with us,” he said.

A moment of silence was taken to reflect on the tragedy as Huskies illuminated the darkness of night with the light of hundreds of candles.

“The light [of the candles] symbolizes good in the world,” Brzezinski said. “And they represent the 32 lives lost during the tragedy.”

Many students and faculty expressed sympathy regarding the VT tragedy and said they will keep them in their prayers.

“God bless NIU, and Virginia Tech,” Peters said.