Drexel teammates Andrea Messina (on left) and Kaeli McPhee are seen after both competed in the same section of novice fences on October 26 of last year.

ANDREA MESSINA, DREXEL UNIVERSITY RIDER, PASSES AWAY

Andrea Messina, a senior on the Drexel University equestrian team who was recently diagnosed with Leukemia, passed away on May 31st. According to Drexel teammate Casey Damiani, "Andrea was in her Senior year at Drexel University's College of Arts and Sciences. She was President of the Pre-Veterinary Medical Association and Crescent girl of Drexel's Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. A dedicated rider on the Drexel Equestrian Team and a member of the Beta Beta Beta Biological honors society, Andrea rode in the IHSA for four years, starting in the beginner walk-trot-canter division and ending her career with wins in the novice division. She attended nearly every horse show throughout her four years and planned to ride Alumni next year. Andrea was truly a vibrant member and her incredibly positive and upbeat spirit will be missed by all."