Dear Sisters,

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It is with deep sadness that I share with you the tragic news immediately affecting the members of our Gamma Theta chapter at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

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Katie Cooper, 22, and Veronika Weiss, 19, were tragically lost in the Isla Vista shootings. Another member was injured in the incident and is expected to recover from her injuries. We ask for continued prayers for her healing.

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Katie will be remembered for her generous spirit and warm heart. Veronika will be remembered for her vibrant personality and enthusiasm for life.

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The chapter is working together with university personnel, Tri Delta staff and volunteers and local Tri Delta alumnae to determine how they will honor the memory of their sisters and care for one another in the wake of this traumatic loss.

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Tri Deltas everywhere extend our deepest sympathy to the families of our sisters, friends and the entire UCSB and Isla Vista community. We are devastated by this news. When Tri Deltas lose a sister, the pain and loss is shared by us all.

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For updates on this situation, please visit our website.

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Loyally,

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Fraternity President

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Veronika Weiss and Katie Cooper were the definition of “Super Deltas” — a term our chapter uses to describe our most inspirational women who go above and beyond to embody Tri Delta’s values. Words will never be able to express the pain and sorrow in our hearts from experiencing the loss of our two beautiful sisters.

Katie was such a strong individual, and had the most optimistic outlook on life. She was known around the house as the “mama bear,” exemplifying true selflessness and generosity toward everyone she came in contact with. In any situation, she was the first to offer any and everything she could (most frequently while wearing anything patriotic with tons of glitter).

Veronika was a constant, energetic presence, always wearing Converse shoes and a positive attitude. She spent more time at the chapter house with us than anywhere else on campus. Her smile lit up every room and her enthusiasm for life motivated us to become better versions of ourselves. We could always count on her effortless humor and wit to brighten up our days.

In the wake of this tragedy, we are committed to appreciating the value of life and to emulating the amazing attributes that Veronika and Katie shared so generously with us. We are grateful for and hold close to heart those who survived on Friday, including one of our own.

We want Veronika and Katie’s stories to live on in the world, however, we ask the media to respect our privacy as we take time to grieve.