Students and faculty gathered last night to remember the life of Rebecca Griego, who was killed in Gould Hall last spring by her ex-boyfriend.

The candlelight vigil also served to promote understanding of domestic abuse.

On average, more than three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends every day in this country, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics.

Sexual Assault Referral and Information Service (SARIS) and Committee Organizing Rape Education (CORE) teamed up to lead the event. Members of these groups passed out candles and took part in the walk from the HUB lawn to Gould Hall.

UW freshman Brandon Quesada remembers hearing about the incident on the news last year. Yesterday he walked through the silent witness exhibit near the HUB lawn.

“It broke my heart to read about Rebecca’s story and all of the others listed,” he said.

Though he did not personally know Griego, he felt it important to honor her memory last night during the candlelight vigil.

Following the walk, the group formed a tight circle and talked about Griego and domestic violence. The group stood still in remembrance, as buses and cars roared up and down the busy street.

Diane Perry, Griego’s mother, spoke.

“All of us must work to prevent or stop violent relationships,” she said. “One may be closer than you ever imagined — a friend, coworker or family member, as I have experienced.”

Griego’s family spent the day at Discovery Park, one of Rebecca’s favorite places, her mother said.

Perry came to the UW campus “to search for Rebecca” after spending time at the park.

It has been a challenging year for the Griego family, but Perry looks to her daughter’s memory for strength, she said.

On Tuesday, Perry and her two other daughters, Rachel and Sarah, witnessed the governor sign a new bill that will provide more protection and resources for victims of domestic abuse.

“I think it’s amazing that your family has been able to turn this tragedy into something progressive for the policy of our state,” senior Daniel Reid said to Perry after the walk.

Reid read the words on a plaque in the wall, in Griego’s honor, while standing in front of the office where she died:

“Gifted and resourceful colleague, diligent editor, researcher and planner, true mentor for all who brightened her door.”

The UW executive director of media relations, Norm Arkans, commented on the event.

“That plaque and the memory of Rebecca J. Griego will forever be present at the University,” he said.

[Reach reporter Chantal Anderson at news@thedaily.washington.edu.]