Memorial barbeque for Chris Sanders

Today we pause to remember what we lost a year ago in the tragic death of our dear friend and brother Chris "Stewie" Sanders. We lost a great athlete and a fierce competitor, whose heart was poured not only into every Duke swim meet but also into every intramural game. We lost a champion "FIFA" player. We lost unlimited access to every funny clip from "South Park" and "Family Guy," and, in truth, from the internet at large. Most of all, we lost the single most perfect smile, always large, always genuine, always infectious. We lost a tremendous amount a year ago, and we cannot help but miss him and mourn the passing of one of the greatest brothers this fraternity has ever known.

And yet, it is not enough to remember what we lost. In fact, when we think of Stewie, our hearts are overwhelmed by what we gained. For, in truth, Chris Sanders' legacy must simply be that he gave. Stewie filled our lives with joy and fun and taught us the power of a smile. He gave much needed guidance to incoming freshmen, serving as a member of the FAC Board. He provided us with an example of what it means to be a brother, consistently and without the slightest resentment. He gave everything he had for us, both to each of us individually and for the fraternity at large. He gave us an understanding that fraternities provide us with brothers and lifelong friends but should not discourage us from seeking others; the love shown for Chris a year ago transcended greek life, transcended sporting teams, transcended everything. Anyone who had contact with him loved him, because for him to know someone meant to give them love and anything else they needed.

Certainly, today all of us will come together in solidarity to mourn what we lost in Stewie's passing. But to truly respect him, to love him and to honor his memory, we must remember how much he gave us, how much we loved him for it and how fortunate we are to have known such a remarkably special human being.

Tomorrow, we invite all those who knew and loved Stewie to Kilgo Quad at 5 p.m. for a barbeque in his honor. Chris' family will be in attendance, stories will be shared and a bench will be dedicated in his honor.

The Brothers of Sigma Nu fraternity