The University lost a model student and a selfless, compassionate friend when graduate Education student Elizabeth "Lizzy" Hafter became a victim of homicide over the weekend, friends of Hafter said.
The FBI confirmed yesterday that Hafter's body was discovered Sunday on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Augusta County, Va. University administrators believe Hafter drove out to the Parkway to study, but they do not know when she left or encountered her assailant. The suspect in the case, William Ashby, was killed Monday night following a car chase and an exchange of gunfire in Florida, according to the FBI.
Hafter graduated from the University in 2006, receiving bachelors degrees from the College in drama and history. She enrolled in the Curry School of Education this fall to earn a master's degree in teaching.
According to her friend Suzy Quinn, Hafter had hoped to eventually teach drama or work with special education students.
"She had a big heart for them," Quinn said.
Bob Chapel, Fletcher's advisor in the drama department, said Hafter had a "vivacious" personality, which influenced her work in the department.
"Whatever she was doing in the theater, whether it was acting on the stage or sweeping the floor, she was happy to be in the theater," Chapel recalled.
Chapel noted that Hafter would always "bounce back" rather than become depressed anytime she didn't get cast in a role.
"She was a very resilient young woman," he said. "She was really a role model for the rest of our students."
Quinn said Hafter was a positive example of what a student should be, especially during their fourth year together at the University.
"She taught me a little about discipline," Quinn said.
Hafter's former roommate Tracey Grimm said she too remembers Hafter's studious nature and intelligence, as well as her devotion to those she loved.
"She was very close to her friends and her family," Grimm noted.
Quinn noted that Hafter was particularly close to her mother.
"They were two peas in a pod," Quinn said. "They're the same person, just different ages."
Hafter always sought to cheer up her friends, Quinn recalled.
"She's the first person to offer someone a hug if they're having a bad day," Quinn said. "She's always concerned about how everyone else is doing."
The University's Counseling and Psychological Services will offer counseling and support to students affected by Hafter's loss.
Dean of Students Penny Rue noted that Hafter's death has had a significant impact on the University community.
"This is just the most tragic situation I can remember," Rue said. "I think everyone is just reeling from it."
Quinn said she takes comfort in the fact that Hafter will not easily be forgotten.
"Lizzy is sort of a caricature of what a remarkably funny and energetic and life-affirming person is," Quinn said. "Everyone has a clear portrait of Lizzy in their heads, and I don't think that's going to go away anytime soon."
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