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October 9, 2003

Father of Columbine victim to speak at Purdue

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – The father of Rachel Joy Scott, a victim of the Columbine High School shooting that occurred in 1999, will speak at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, in Purdue University's Elliott Hall of Music.

Darrell Scott will share the story of his daughter's life and how his son, Craig, has recovered from the tragedy. Craig's two best friends were shot as they huddled next to him under a library table.

Scott also will talk about how kindness is the most effective antidote for violence and how his daughter had extended compassion to those who were bullied or overlooked. Scott says the message of her kindness has created a chain reaction that has transformed school campuses and communities throughout the United States.

The speech, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by the Campus Crusade for Christ. Kent Wilson, Campus Crusade for Christ spokesperson, says Scott also will share Rachel's diaries and pictures, which have had an impact on millions of people since her death.

"Darrell tells of a young girl who knew from an early age that her life was going to have an impact on the world," Wilson says. "Rachel's story continues to captivate and stir the people who hear Darrell speak from a father's heart."

Scott's talks have been heard by more than 3 million people, including politicians, educators, citizens and students. This past year, he has spoken at more than 50 college campuses.

Scott has written three books, "Rachel's Tears," "Chain Reaction" and "Rachel Smiles," which all relate stories about Rachel and the lives she touched. He also has appeared on several television shows, including the "Oprah Winfrey Show," "Larry King Live" and "The Today Show." He has been quoted in Time, Newsweek, Christianity Today and other national publications. The testimony he gave before a congressional committee about the Columbine shooting can be found on more than 10,000 Web sites.

Writer: Marydell Forbes (765) 496-7704, mforbes@purdue.edu

Source: Kent Wilson, (765)497-4847, Kbapwilson@aol.com

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

Note to Journalists: A publication-quality photo of Darrell Scott is available at https://www.purdue.edu/uns/images/scott.d.jpeg


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