Anyone who ever knew Katie Vashon knew of her love for the Boston Red Sox. With this in mind, I will borrow a popular Red Sox phrase to best describe Katie. While slugger Manny Ramirez describes his antics as "Just Manny, being Manny," I can best describe everyday in our office was "Just Katie, being Katie."
Katie was not only a great person but an amazing friend. But rather than reflecting on the tragedy of Katie's death, I would like to enjoy the many great memories she provided myself and the rest of the staff.
When I came to Quinnipiac just over a year ago, I was told of the great family atmosphere that exists through the athletic department. My very first day at Quinnipiac is one I will never forget. It's the day I first met Katie.
I was hired and asked to work a volleyball tournament right out of the gate. Katie, who was not even scheduled to work that day, was there to meet and greet me and offer a helping hand. Katie being Katie.
After a few weeks I realized how special Katie really was. She would stop by daily just to say, "What's Up?" She was always willing to lend a helping hand. Katie's outstanding work ethic and amazing attitude made her quickly become my favorite work-study. I will often joke with all of the work-studies claiming that they are my favorite, but Katie was and will always be my favorite.
Katie was a staple at many different Quinnipiac events, working nearly every event possible over the past four years. However, my greatest memories are working baseball games with her.
She had a love of baseball that was unwavering. Whether it was a non-conference tilt against UMass on a Wednesday at 11 a.m. or the conference championship game against Monmouth, there was no question that Katie would be there. Once again, Just Katie, being Katie.
Katie was always the voice of reason when disagreements would spark over whether a play was a hit or an error. Or whenever someone would get too excited or worry about a close game or a loss, Katie would be the one to say, "Its ok guys there is always tomorrow."
Anyone who knew Katie knew what a full life she led. At a Quinnipiac baseball game it would not be uncommon for Katie to be running to the cafe in between games of a double-header to grab a quick bite to eat and eating one-handed as we scored the second game. Once again, Katie being Katie.
I know when I go out to score a game for the rest of my days, I will remember just how special it was to have Katie being Katie by my side.
By Tom Wilkins, Assistant Athletic Director/Sports Information