This summer was one filled with losses to the Meredith community. During the three months of the summer break, the Meredith community lost two notable community members: Willa Harrington and Dr. Timothy Hendrix. Both Willa and Dr. Hendrix had a strong presence at Meredith, and their loss has been felt across campus.
Willa was a member of the Class of 2024, studying History and Theatre at Meredith. A gifted student, Willa was a member of Meredith’s Honors Program and was attending Meredith on a full scholarship. She was the first recipient of the Happer-Graham History scholarship for aspiring history teachers and planned to teach grades 9-12 after graduation. In addition to her scholastic accomplishments, Willa was involved on campus as the Resident Assistant (RA) of Brewer Residence’s first floor, within the theater department, in the Big Sister/Little Sister program, and in Meredith’s teaching scholars program. Known for always having a smile on her face, Willa lit up any room she entered and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone, whether a friend, resident, or stranger.
Earlier in the summer break, Dr. Hendrix passed away. Dr. Hendrix was a Professor of Mathematics who had been at Meredith since 2002. During his 21 years at Meredith, he served as PRISM director, Faculty Council Chair, and as the Director of General Education. He was also involved in Meredith’s AWE-STEM scholars program, as well as the Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE), for which he served as Executive Director for six years. In addition to mathematics, he had a love for music and was involved in Meredith’s Italian study abroad program, where he met his fiance. Dr. Hendrix cared deeply about his students and worked tirelessly to support them and improve the Meredith community.
Willa and Dr. Hendrix represented the values of Meredith’s community. They both exemplified Meredith’s values of integrity, academic excellence, global citizenship and relevance. And were both undeniably strong.
A tribute bulletin board has been put up on the second floor of Lux in Willa’s honor. Students and other community members are invited to leave memories of Willa on the board. Dr. Hendrix’s celebration of life will take place on Sept. 23, 2023, at 11 a.m. at Greystone Baptist Church in Raleigh.
Students in need can seek support from the Counseling Center, the Chaplain and the Dean of Students staff.
By Clary Taylor, News Editor
Photo by Grayson Morris