Reflections

"Chris was not just one of us. He was the best of us. He demonstrated it every day. He was a talented student and involved leader, but most importantly, he was a great friend. Being Chris' friend meant many things.... it meant that I had this amazing person who was always there for me and who always wanted me to have as much fun as he was having in his life. I think that's what he wanted for everyone he met." - Dan Hyndman, Vanderbilt Law Class of 2011

"As the President of the Vanderbilt Bar Association, Chris met with me from time to time on behalf of the student body, requesting one thing or another in his laid back, but ultimately very persuasive way. In all of my interactions with Chris, I was struck by his intellect, his humility, his affability, his genuine concern for others, and his apparent participation in virtually every aspect of the life of our law school. Among the extraordinary students who grace the halls of this school, Chris managed to stand out. Since his death, I have learned some important things about his life and his legacy. From his resume, I have learned that he was even more accomplished than I realized, which no doubt reflects his humility as a human being. From his classmates and his friends, I have learned that the high standards he set for himself in his studies and in his work extended to all aspects of his life. He pursued friendships, hobbies, sports and play with the same kind of vigor and enthusiasm he devoted to his studies. And from his family, his fianceé, and his close-knit community in Oakland, Maryland, I have learned most important of all, that Chris loved deeply and was deeply loved. Chris' death is a tragedy, but Chris' life, which he clearly lived to the fullest, is one worth emulating and celebrating." – Chris Guthrie, Dean and John Wade Kent Syverud Professor of Law, Vanderbilt Law School

"Chris was untouchable; he was my engineering classmate at WVU and so impressive in all aspects of life that you wondered where he hid his Superman cape." – Sarah Soliman, West Virginia University Engineering Student

"Chris had a special ability to bring people together, an ability he displayed as a leader of so many organizations and events at our school. Personally, I took part in the racquetball league that Chris founded, and the No-Shave November charity event he started. They may sound like small contributions, but to me they were tremendously valuable the type of thing that transforms a bunch of individual classmates into a real community."– Gene Endress, Vanderbilt Class of 2011

"As the president of the Vanderbilt Bar Association, he worked tirelessly for the benefit of all students, recognizing concerns and problem situations in need of attention and actively working toward their prompt and meaningful resolutions. He was a true leader, enhancing cooperation and collegiality, being a valuable role model and mentor, and serving as an inspiring example to his colleagues as he worked without recognition to help those most in need."– Julie Sandine, Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, Vanderbilt Law School