Middle Tennessee State University students, faculty, and staff gathered on Wednesday evening for an emotional vigil honoring the life of Serenity Birdsong, a student who tragically took her own life at the James E. Walker Library earlier this week.
The solemn event brought together hundreds of people in a show of support, love, and unity, filling the campus with an outpouring of collective grief, compassion, and remembrance.
Serenity, a transgender student remembered for her resilience and kindness, touched the lives of many on campus. MTSU administrators were present and actively showed their commitment to supporting the well-being of their students, hoping that everyone attending felt the warmth and strength of their university family.
One of the most powerful moments of the evening came when attendees joined in singing Lean on Me:
The song served as a reminder that, even in times of darkness, no one in the community needs to face their pain alone. For those who knew Serenity, the vigil was a chance to celebrate her life and share memories.
