AURORA, Colo. – This week marks 12 years since the city of Aurora and the entire country was devastated by a tragedy that took the lives of 12 individuals, including four members of the Community College of Aurora (CCA).
On July 20, 2012, a mass shooter entered the Century 16 Movie Theater in Aurora and took the lives of innocent moviegoers. CCA students who lost their lives in the tragedy include Jonathan Blunk, Alexander “AJ” Boik, Micayla Medek and Rebecca Wingo.
Each year, CCA remembers and honors the memory of these individuals and their lasting impact on the college. CCA President, Dr. Mordecai Brownlee said, “As a college community, we continue to honor the memory of all those who lost their lives during the tragic Aurora theater shooting in 2012. Our hearts continue to grieve for the victims and their families. We remember their lives and the profound impact of that day on our community. This day reminds us of the importance of fostering a spirit of compassion and resilience as we work towards a brighter, safer future for all.”
In addition to the people who were killed in the tragedy, 70 others were injured. In the years following the events of that day, the City of Aurora built a monument to honor the memories of the victims. The 7/20 Foundation offers a place for the community to gather and support one another as it embraces its motto, “Love Always Wins.”
According to the group’s mission statement, the goal is to support other communities nationwide who have experienced similar tragedies. In addition to the memorial, the group offers events and other projects dedicated to the lives of the victims.
In addition to other upcoming events this week, the group is hosting its annual Midnight Vigil on Friday, July 19 at 10:30 p.m. at the 7/20 Memorial in the Aurora Water Wise Garden. Check the organization’s Upcoming Events page for more information.
Photos by: CCA Dept. of Strategic Communications