Thousands Gather at Utah Valley University to Honor Late Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk
A memorial organized by Turning Point USA drew thousands to Utah Valley University, where speakers remembered the slain founder of the campus-right group and discussed the pending murder trial.
Thousands of attendees gathered Thursday evening at the UCCU Center on the Utah Valley University campus for a memorial organized by Turning Point USA, the conservative student organization founded by Charlie Kirk. Kirk, who was shot and killed on Sept. 10, 2025 while speaking at the same venue, was 31 years old.
Conservative commentator Glenn Beck opened the program, describing Kirk as a "hero" and praising his faith and advocacy on college campuses. Beck said Kirk "knew something like this could happen" and acted out of love for God and country. Other speakers, including author Frank Turek, who was near Kirk when he was shot, referred to him as a "modern-day martyr."
The ceremony included a moment of silence and video tributes highlighting Kirk’s views on marriage, family, Christian faith, and the mission of Turning Point USA. Sage Lloyd, president of the university’s Turning Point chapter, said Kirk taught people to stand by their convictions and that his influence would endure.
Turning Point USA field officer Andrew Sypher asserted that the attack would not halt the organization’s work, stating, "They killed a voice. They did not stop the work." Michael Knowles, a political commentator, added that Kirk’s death has weakened the cohesion of the American right and emboldened the left.
Authorities have charged 23-year-old Tyler Robinson of Washington County with aggravated murder. Prosecutors allege Robinson "hated" what Kirk represented; he has pleaded not guilty and the case is set for trial.
Beck also warned against conspiracy theories targeting Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, urging listeners to respond to hostility with "kindness and grace" and emphasizing that Kirk’s message was rooted in Christian love rather than hate.