by: Koya Perez

The Dymond’s Are Forever tribute was held in memory of Dymond S. Dantzler, the former Women’s Senate President for the 2015-2016 school year at Delaware State University. Dymond, unfortunately passed away in a car accident back in May 2015.

“Women’s Senate wanted to start the school year off by giving light to our president, making sure her legacy continues to live on, and also giving her mother, family and friends, a sense of ease in their hearts,” said Sharnada Martin, Women’s Senate Vice President. The decision to keep Dymond as president was made to honor and respect her position.

In the front row of the packed Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Center parlors sat Dymond’s mother Mrs. Simone Byrd, along with a few family members, and her dearest friends at DSU.

A full view of the DSU students and the family of Dymond Dantzler at the Dymond’s Are Forever tribute. Photo Credit: Koya Perez

The program opened with praise dancing by Brandi Moore, which earned her a roaring applause from the audience. The Women’s Senate executive board then took the stage to introduce themselves and thank Dymond’s friends, family and fellow students for coming out. After the introductions, a tribute video made by JR The Kid Productions was shown. The video included pictures and short videos of Dantzler with her close friends at DSU.

Women’s Senate Treasurer Brandi Madden presented Dymond’s mother with the official Women’s Senate President-embroidered polo t-shirt in a frame. SGA Recording Secretary Jasmine Jenkins, along with Amani Mason sang the Gospel hymn His Eye Is On The Sparrow, one of Dymond’s favorite songs, followed by a short intermission.

A two-step battle contest took place showcasing Dymond’s love for dance with the women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., which Dymond was a member of, stepping in honor of her. Mrs. Byrd gave a speech to the audience, expressing her gratitude for the program and for everyone coming out to remember her only daughter’s life, before ending the program with a prayer.

This year, Women’s Senate is making sure Dymond’s legacy lives on. Their future programs are planned keeping Dymond’s ideas and creativity in mind, as they plan to stick to their core values and rebuild sisterhood on campus. Watch Women’s Senate take over.