We held our breath, hoping for good news from VT. But it was bad news instead.

[Buzz Clik]

We had three colleagues who taught in that building and a dozen of former students who took classes there. Even with more than 30 dead, we hoped. When the news began to break, we were heartbroken.

Of those we knew, three of the students and two of the faculty did not survive. Among the fallen was G. V. Loganathan, a brilliant researcher and gifted teacher. He had strong ties to our school, and, particularly, was best friends to one of my favorite people. My friend and others here are now struggling to understand all of this, and is slowly coming to terms with his grief.

There will be some long days and sleepless nights. My thoughts go out to all of those who lost someone dear in this needless tragedy.