Candlelight filled the Atwood Memorial Center Mall Sunday evening as students, faculty and staff came together with the family and friends of Jesse Dady to remember and mourn.
Jesse was a junior studying biochemistry. He went missing in the early hours of March 25. His body was recovered from the Mississippi River Friday evening, and a candlelight vigil gave students, faculty and staff a chance to offer their support to Jesse’s family and friends.
The vigil included a short program, lighting of candles and a moment of silence. During the program, Interim President Ashish Vaidya expressed his sorrow for the loss and his support for Jesse’s family.
“As our candles are lit — one by one — it is symbolic of spreading support from one person to another,” Vaidya said. “Tonight let our flames burn bright in Jesse’s memory and let the light bring comfort and strength to Jesse’s family and friends — and bring peace to one another.”
Student Government President Mikaela Johnson, Rev. Chris Cortte, Student Government Vice President Randy Olson, Jesse’s faculty adviser Michael Jeannot and Drake Thompson, Jesse’s former roommate, also spoke.
“Jesse was a bright, thoughtful, inquisitive young man. He also had a kind and gentle demeanor. … We are all shocked and deeply saddened by his untimely passing,” Jeannot said. “Jesse’s good nature will be remembered by everyone who knew him. I hope we will all honor his memory with kindness and support for each other.”
Cortte read a statement from Jesse’s father, Dave, thanking St. Cloud State, the St. Cloud Police Department, Stearns County and friends and family who have supported him and their family during the difficult time.
The vigil ended with a release of balloons provided by Jesse’s friends, who invited everyone present to write a message for Jesse on the balloons before they were released.
While this vigil was taking place, I was returning from a visit with my daughter who is attending Winona State University. As I hugged my daughter good bye, I thought with great sadness how Jesse’s family will not be able to exchange a hug with him again. My deepest condolences go out to his family.