Tomorrow, I get on a plane to fly to Charlotte, NC to attend the unveiling and dedication of a new memorial for Reed, Riley, and the other victims of the April 30, 2019 shooting that occurred in my class. I have written several pieces on the subject over the four years and I always write something around the anniversary each year.

This year is a little different. I still plan to write on the subject. However, this is the first year that UNC-Charlotte is bringing me back on campus since I moved to Texas in June of 2019. They have invited me to Remembrance Ceremonies every year, but being in Texas, I cannot simply jump on a plane on my of dollar to attend.

This year, UNC-Charlotte graciously paid to fly me to this very special and somber ceremony. I am looking forward to seeing my friends and colleagues, most of whom I’ve not seen in four years. I also feel reticent since I haven’t been on campus much since the shooting, apart from attending graduation in support of my students.

I expect to write something after I return from my Charlotte trip. I’m not sure exactly what it will be; likely something about my thoughts and experiences being back in Charlotte and the memorial dedication.