Key Takeaways
- MT Lambda, where Serenity was active, honoured her memory through social media and cancelled planned events.
- A GoFundMe campaign supports Serenity’s partner, showing strong community compassion.
- MTSU emphasized mental health resources for students in response.
Serenity Birdsong, a transgender student at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), took her own life on campus in the James E. Walker Library on Monday, October 28, 2024.
Serving as vice president of MT Lambda, MTSU’s LGBTQ+ organization, Birdsong is remembered warmly by those who knew her and the entire university community.
The news of her passing has brought about a deep wave of support and mourning across the campus.
In response, MTSU cancelled classes and temporarily closed the library on Tuesday, allowing students and staff time to grieve. Classes resumed on Wednesday, but the impact of Serenity’s passing continues to be deeply felt.
Details surrounding her death have not been publicly disclosed out of respect for her privacy and that of her loved ones.
Shortly after her passing, MT Lambda shared a heartfelt message on Instagram.
Serenity was more than an officer to us; many of us considered Serenity our friend, and her ability to light up a room, paired with her wholesome demeanor made her welcome anywhere, but especially in Lambda where we are burdened by the darkness of existing in a world so often cruel to us and it is this darkness that snuffed out Serenity’s life.
Via Instagram
Birdsong was a highly active figure at MTSU, especially within MT Lambda, where she dedicated herself to creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ students.
Her friends and peers describe her as compassionate and uplifting – qualities that left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
To support the grieving community, the SGA will hold a vigil on Wednesday, October 30, at 6 p.m. outside the library, bringing students and staff together to honour Serenity’s memory.
Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign organized by Zoe Grummons has raised over $16,000 to support Serenity’s partner, Delanie Dempsey.
This campaign reflects the community’s compassion and dedication to supporting those most directly impacted by her loss.
In respect of Serenity’s memory, other campus organizations have postponed regular activities to hold support sessions.
Alpha Omicron Pi is hosting a critical incident stress debriefing on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at House 1 on Greek Row, open to all who wish to attend.
Meanwhile, The Point, a campus ministry, will host a night of worship and offer counselling services on Tuesday at New Vision Church.
These gatherings not only honour Serenity’s memory but also underscore the urgent need for accessible mental health resources on college campuses.
MTSU is highlighting its mental health services, including counselling and wellness programs at the Keathley University Center, along with 24/7 crisis hotlines for students who need support.
The university hopes these resources will offer solace and support to anyone struggling with loss or personal challenges.
Her legacy continues at MTSU, reminding everyone of the vital need for compassion and mental health support.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Local mental health professionals encouraged acts of kindness and community support following the tragedy.
- The group, which had initially planned a Halloween celebration, will instead host a gathering space for remembrance and discussion in Serenity’s memory in the Student Union, Room 224, following the SGA vigil.
