The campus continues to mourn the unexpected loss of Deputy Athletic Director Aaron Leetch and Associate Head Men’s Basketball Coach Torrey Ward. In the days that followed the tragic events that took the lives of ISU staff, alumni and friends, the University came together in their grief to pay tribute.
“Words cannot fully express the grief that is felt in the wake of such a tragedy,” said President Larry Dietz in a statement to campus. “We move between shock and profound sadness. At times like these we may even question our deeply held beliefs and wonder what the future will hold. It is important to remember that we are never alone in our grief.”
The ISU family joined with the families of those lost at a prayer service on April 8 at Redbird Arena, where the Reggie statue provided a place for mementos and continued remembrance.
Athletics faced some of the toughest hurdles, losing two of their own so suddenly. “Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those involved,” said Director of Athletics Larry Lyons. “There is no play in the playbook for times like these. We will miss Aaron and Torrey deeply, and we will support their families in any way that we can. To honor their individual and collective legacies, we will move the Redbirds and our community forward.”
Information on memorials is available on the Athletics site.
