Her bright potential

The American Indian community in North Carolina, and particularly members of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe, are deeply saddened and in mourning due to the tragic death of Faith Hedgepeth. We will never forget the extraordinary potential of the smart, outgoing UNC student, who was a successful participant in the N.C. Commission of Indian Affairs' Educational Talent Search Program and aspired to attend medical school.

Faith also was an active member of the N.C. Native American Student Organization, where she was selected to represent her Haliwa-Saponi Tribe. Her commitment to service reminds us of her father, Roland Hedgepeth, a former Commission member who likewise represented the tribe during his tenure.

In tribute to her academic excellence and tribal leadership, the Commission extends its deepest sympathy to the Hedgepeth family, its appreciation to involved law enforcement and appreciation to all those who seek to honor her legacy.

Greg Richardson

Executive director, N.C. Commission of Indian Affairs

Raleigh