If there ever was a division between the DeKalb and NIU communities, it no longer exists.

After the Feb. 14 tragedy, we have seen so much outpouring support from DeKalb, Sycamore and surrounding towns, it is almost too much to take in.

Nearly every store marquee in the area has added a message giving their thoughts and prayers to the NIU family. It is unfortunate that it takes an event like this to make such a difference, but in the end we all stand united.

Throughout this entire ordeal, the Northern Star has received donations from various businesses in the area to help us get through. Through these donations, we were able to stay healthy and focus on bringing the news to you.

The support from the cities and businesses makes students proud to be a part of such a great community. Prior to this event, Garrett Wolfe may be the first thing to pop into people’s heads when asked about DeKalb. Now, it’s the town that has backed the university in every way possible.

NIU gear has been put on sale at stores throughout the area in honor of the demand to show Huskie spirit. As anyone enters DeKalb off of I-88, drivers are greeted with a huge sign showing how much the community cares about the university.

Through all of these actions, the university and the rest of the community have become one. No longer do students just attend NIU. No longer are community members just DeKalb residents. Now, more than ever before, we are one community. One community that can come together and show the world how we can get through this tragedy. “Forward, together forward,” is no longer just a line from NIU’s fight song.