Some Cornellians came to Willard Straight Hall's International Lounge after the midday remembrance at Sage Chapel. Others stopped in between classes, during a study break or before a work shift.

They were mostly silent. Groups of friends moved to round tables stocked with art supplies and began creating condolence cards. Individuals lingered at the front of the room, reading the words of others on a giant banner -- then picking up a pen and adding their own.

The Together We Mourn project, an opportunity for Cornell students, faculty and staff to send words of support to the Virginia Tech community, was coordinated by the Association of College Unions International and included stations at the Carol Tatkon Center and Robert Purcell Community Center. Cornellians were also encouraged to wear Virginia Tech colors (orange and maroon), Friday, April 20.

"We wanted to create something where students have something positive to do," said Alice Green, assistant dean of students.

The cards and banners will be sent to Blacksburg, Va., in the coming days, Green added. In the meantime, she encouraged students who need additional support to take advantage of the student-run Empathy, Assistance and Referral Service (EARS) and other resources. "We're reminding people to take care of themselves during this busy April -- and to take care of each other."

As Green spoke, people kept filing through. Cards piled up. And the banner filled with condolences:

"We are so sorry."

"Be strong. Take care. My heart is with you."

"Lo sentimos tanto. Estamos con ustedes."

"In some way, we are all connected. We are with you."

"I may not know you, and probably will never know you, but I still mourn for you. To all the families and friends of those who have lost, I will mourn with you. We're all in this together."

"You're all heroes."