On Monday, the University of Nottingham honored two of the young victims. Their horrible assault sent a huge wave of fear running through the community that supported the artists. On June 13, 2023, a brutal spate of stabbings claimed the lives of two 19-year-olds, Grace O’Malley-Kumar and Barnaby Webber. The attack very sadly led to the death of school caretaker Ian Coates. Like many cities across the world, their degree ceremonies were a painful reminder of their young lives and radical histories rooted in Nottingham.
In an emotional tribute, Barnaby’s younger brother, Charlie Webber, accepted on his behalf a history degree during the graduation ceremony. “It’s such a tough day, but it’s such a lovely day to celebrate Barney’s graduation,” said Abi Brant, a friend who knew Barnaby from their time at school in Somerset and later reconnected in Nottingham. The degree was a significant tribute to Barnaby’s legacy, given his involvement with the university’s cricket team and his strong ties to the city.
On Thursday, Grace O’Malley-Kumar graduated with her Bachelor of Medical Science. This honor illuminates the academic promise cut short by acts of terror. Friends and family came together to support each other and pay tribute to the victims. They were joyous about the amazing support they’d had from the university and local community.
Leading T. Charlie Webber, thanking the people of Nottingham for their “overwhelming support” “The city was there for us immediately – they didn’t know us, they’d never met us, they didn’t know our names, they wouldn’t have even met Barney, but they were there for us the whole time,” he stated. To many locals, this collective act of charity was a testament to the community’s strength in overcoming senseless tragedy.
Another close friend who became close with Barnaby through shared love of cricket, Ollie Chaplin, underscored the deep connections established during their formative university years. “Although he’s not here, it’s nice to be able to support the family, and it’s great that the university has honoured Barney as well,” he remarked.
The three ceremonies were jubilant celebrations of student achievement and academic success. More than anything else, they gave Americans a healing moment to grieve their individual losses. Hosted by Grace’s family, friends and family to beautiful memories of Grace and Barnaby. Along with the memories came the realization of the tremendous impact both of these guys had on all those around them.
