Friends and family of Tally Sepot took to the stage to kick off Tally Hour — an hour dedicated to the life and memory of Penn State’s fallen sister. Her friends passed along the microphone as they shared their favorite memories, sharing an emotional moment of remembrance.

“To say that Tally is beautiful is an understatement. Tally was the light of our lives. She was our best friend, sister, and roommate. Today, we THON for Tally, FTK, and for the cure.”

“Tally was a wonderful kind girl with a captivating smile and an amazing laugh. She is the sun. She brightened days with her presence, and we will forever miss that. We’ll always be following the sun for you Tally.”

A tribute video appeared on the screen as her friends urged the THON crowd to take a moment to celebrate their fallen sister’s life. “Please put your hands together and join us in a moment of celebration as we honor the beautiful life of Tally.”

Others who who knew her took the microphone next, leaving the crowd with a somber yet heartfelt message. “It’s a great honor to be here today with everybody. Needless to say, we all miss her greatly. She was thrilled to be a part of the Penn State community.”

Tally’s mother joined her fellow AXO sisters on the stage, taking a moment to acknowledge those in attendance. “We would just like to say thank you for having all of us here,” she said before giving all in attendance a word of advice. “In honor of Tally, when you turn the car on, please turn your cellphones off.”