A tragic event unfolded during a half-marathon in Erie as a Kittanning woman, identified as Toby Atwood, collapsed while participating in the race over the weekend and subsequently died at a local hospital, as reported by WPXI.
Atwood, 21, was attending Thiel College, where she was known not only for her athletic prowess as a valued member of the women's tennis team but also for her extensive involvement in campus activities, the college is currently in the process of finalizing funeral services for Atwood according to reports, a rising senior, Atwood held numerous leadership roles including the presidency of the Zeta Tau Alpha women's fraternity and participation in various academic and leadership organizations. She was recognized for playing the No. 1 singles position on her team and serving as a co-captain.
Michael McKinney, vice president for student life and athletics at Thiel College, conveyed the impact of Atwood's passing, stating, "Her presence touched the lives of so many, and she will be deeply missed," a sentiment reflected in the college's news release, which WPXI detailed. Students at Thiel College, grieving the loss of their peer, have been urged to seek support from the college's Counseling Center or the campus pastoral care office.
Atwood's sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, shared a heartrending tribute to their departed sister, "Toby was a light in everyone’s life. There was never a dull moment with her and she was always there for the people she loved when they needed it. Toby truly left her mark while she was with us," a statement which echos her influence and the profound void left by her absence, a statement released by the chapter and reported by WTAE. "She was seen as a leader, role model and mentor. She was strong, resilient, and never afraid to speak her mind. There will forever be a hole in our hearts and our chapter without her. She has touched the lives of so many," the chapter further remembered the late Atwood.
