One year after the assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, those who were close to him at the time of his death returned to the campus on Thursday evening. Turning Point USA (TPUSA) described this gathering as a conscious effort to “reclaim” the space in his memory.
Andrew Kolvet, a spokesman for TPUSA and executive producer of “The Charlie Kirk Show,” mentioned during an appearance on Fox News that this event was intended as a tribute to honor Kirk’s legacy.
Andrew Sypher, the chief field officer for TPUSA, shared with attendees that he had been standing just ten feet away from Kirk when the fatal gunshot was fired on September 10, 2025.
Sypher addressed the crowd at UVU, stating, “Steps from these doors is the ground where evil unfolded,” noting they were not there to reenact the tragedy. Instead, they aimed to assert that this is where their fight continues, asserting, “this is where we refuse to let the last word be a gunshot.”
For the students involved in the TPUSA chapter at UVU, this anniversary resonated deeply as many had witnessed the shocking event. Chapter President Sage Lloyd reflected on the transformations in their lives following the tragedy, saying, “A year ago, our lives changed forever.” She acknowledged the fear, grief, and confusion that followed, but highlighted their determination to stay engaged.
Lloyd emphasized that despite the horror of witnessing a political assassination, the same students are committed to speaking out and pushing forward. “We can let it define us through fear,” she said, “or we can let it strengthen us through courage.” They have chosen the latter path.
Sypher also revealed a text that Kirk sent him on the morning of his assassination, stating that Kirk was not there to instigate conflict but rather to promote understanding. “That was the assignment this time,” Sypher noted. Sadly, not long after sending that message, Kirk lost his life.
Sypher passionately declared that Charlie’s assassination only intensified their commitment to their beliefs, asserting, “It woke it up.” The memorial service included worship performances, video tributes, and the unveiling of a new statue in Kirk’s honor, destined to remain on campus.
Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, also commemorated the somber anniversary with a heartfelt black-and-white image from their wedding, captioned with the words, “…until Heaven.” While the university itself did not organize the memorial event, its president had expressed support for TPUSA’s use of the campus space.
In closing, Lloyd conveyed the significance of their return to UVU, stating, “Our chapter is still here, we are still speaking, and we are nowhere near done.” This, she stated, is how Kirk’s voice continues to resonate.
