The remarkable support that came together from all quarters this week in response to the tragic death of Bromfield freshman Jessica Peterson will surely help bring healing to all who knew and loved her, and to those who did not know her but understand the depth of this loss. Harvard’s community spirit shone brightly this week in the candlelight vigil on the Common; the launching of paper cranes and prayers in the pond; and in people offering to bring meals to the family as Jessica’s mother lay hospitalized from the injuries she suffered in the accident that ended her daughter’s life. The presence of caring adults at every gathering was notable.

The school community’s commitment to and caring for its students showed in the arranging of extended grief counseling and support for students and their families; in the presence of teachers at memorial gatherings and their availability to “just talk”; in the presence of School Committee members, who stood by to steer members of the media away from the rock memorial as students sought to grieve in private; in the understanding exhibited toward students by all faculty members; and in the grief on their faces as they dealt with their own feelings about the loss.

As certainly as members of this community will forever remember this sad moment they shared, they will remember the outpouring of concern that drew them together and the community spirit that makes Harvard a special place.