Letter: Families of fallen UNM students touched by support

Editor,

We would like to offer our most heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and support we have received from the UNM community following the tragic accident on the late evening of Nov. 21, which injured Julia Thompson and Joe Mendoza and resulted in the loss of our sweet Briana Hillard and Matthew Grant.

Such tragic events are difficult to bear, but the strong, unfailing support we have received has always reminded us that we are not alone. Clearly they were loved by so many. This realization in itself is comforting, and the UNM community has put its arms around us all. The moving and loving memorial service arranged by Pi Beta Phi and SAE was attended by thousands of people. We cannot thank them enough and will always be glad that Matthew and Briana were part of such a loving Greek family.

The football coaching staff could not have been more supportive. Coaches Bob Davie and Brian DeSpain invited the parents of Matthew and Briana to view a practice the evening before the UNM victory over Wyoming. We received a framed photo, taken out on the field, of both families surrounded by the team — all of whom wore helmets with Briana’s and Matt’s initials. Following the game, which we were invited to watch from the coach’s box, we were given game helmets from two players who played with true heart. Brian personally delivered the helmets and photos to our homes.

UNM President Frank and his wife were also so very kind. We watched much of the game as their guests from the president’s box at the field. Their genuine, heartfelt good wishes helped us put aside our problems for a time to enjoy being together. Briana’s little 5-year-old brother Oliver will, we are sure, always remember that day.

Lisa Lindquist, the director of parent and family programs, was so kind in helping coordinate things and has continued to periodically check in with us and to see if we need anything. What a kind and loving individual.

Our heartfelt thanks also go out to the faculty at the Anderson School of Management where Briana was a senior, and to the sociology department where Matthew was in his senior year. Their decision, with the support from President Frank, to grant Matthew and Briana posthumous degrees is appreciated beyond words. Briana and Matthew both loved UNM and worked so very hard at their studies. We will be attending the graduation on May 9 where Myron Grant will accept the degree for Matthew, and Marina Hillard will accept the degree for Briana. We will be wearing pink leis to honor Briana — feel free to join us.

We will always feel the pain of this tragic loss, but it has been comforting to know we are not alone. We have seen the UNM community at its best. Some may see the University as a huge, impersonal institution. We have come to see it as a community of caring and supportive individuals. Thank you all for your kindness toward our families. We wish each and every one of you peace and joy.

Sincerely,

Michael and Marina Hillard

Myron and Linda Grant