Yesterday evening, Middle Tennessee State University students, faculty, and community members gathered outside the James E. Walker Library to remember Serenity Birdsong, a 21-year-old student who died by suicide earlier this week. MTSU President Sidney McPhee addressed the crowd, saying, "Our love and care for one another can penetrate even our darkest moment," according to WKRN.
Serenity, remembered for her kindness and as the vice president of MT Lambda, an LGBTQIA+ student association, was an important part of the MTSU community. Michai Mosby, president of MTSU's student government association, urged attendees to promote positivity. The event also included readings of Birdsong's poetry, showcasing her creative legacy.
In the wake of the tragedy, the importance of accessible mental health resources was emphasized. MTSU responded by extending counseling services and providing a 24/7 mobile crisis number to support the campus community. As reported by NewsChannel5, student Elizabeth Cannan-Knight, who knew Serenity personally, echoed a sentiment of unconditional support: "There's always people that will support you unconditionally, no matter what."
Meanwhile, WSMV shared a statement from a witness to the incident, William Dawson, who implored the community to become more receptive to seeking professional help for mental health concerns.
Brian Sullivan of the Tennessee Equality Project told WKRN, "It’s really a time for the entire community to come together and, really, to rally around MT Lambda. They’re a student organization on campus that provides services for LGBTQ students there at MTSU. Our heart goes out to Serenity and all of her family and friends."
Following Birdsong's death, the university canceled classes on Tuesday and provided various support services, including counseling and the presence of university leaders at the vigil to express solidarity and hope.
