TPUSA Hosts “Letters for Erika Kirk” Meeting Focused on Faith and Community

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Turning Point USA chapter hosted a meeting on Thursday, Oct. 9, in the Nigh University Center, Room 201, titled “Letters for Erika Kirk.” The event invited students to write personal letters of support to Erika Kirk, who had inspired many members through her faith and leadership.

“This meeting was a time for our TPUSA chapter to come together in love, encouragement, and prayer,” said Tessa Bedford, the chapter’s vice president.

“We wrote heartfelt letters to Erika to remind her that she was deeply cared for and surrounded by a community lifting her during this time. It was a simple but meaningful way to show support and faith in action.”

According to Bedford, the event aimed to provide students with an opportunity to respond to Kirk’s example of resilience and encouragement.

“Erika inspired so many of us through her faith, grace, and strength during this hard time,” Bedford said. “Hosting this event allowed our chapter to come together not just in words, but in unity, sending encouragement to someone who had poured so much into others.”

The chapter stated that the meeting was meant to reflect TPUSA’s focus on fostering community and connection among students.

“We hoped everyone who left would be reminded of the power of community and prayer,” Bedford said. “When we came together for something greater than ourselves, we found strength, peace, and connection.”

Students attending the meeting wrote letters, shared prayers, and offered words of encouragement. Bedford said members had also contributed to organizing and promoting the event, noting the chapter had grown significantly in both size and participation.

“It’s incredible to see how big and strong our chapter has become,” she said. “We hoped to create an atmosphere filled with peace, prayer, and kindness, a space where people felt safe to open their hearts and share encouragement.”

In addition to this conference, the chapter planned various events for future semesters. Bedford stated that these programs aim to maintain enthusiasm and encourage more students to participate in the group.

“TPUSA wasn’t just about political engagement; it was about caring for people, standing firm in truth, and being there for one another when it mattered most,” she said. “There was a place here for anyone who wanted to be part of something bigger than themselves.”

Students interested in learning more about the chapter or getting involved could find information through UCORE or by attending a future TPUSA meeting or tabling event.