Standout Spartan: Hunter Killian '27

Hunter Killian ’27 was rustled out of bed one cold morning recently by his mom, who wanted him to join his sister and her on a special sojourn: to see the Venerable Monks as they trekked through Virginia. The Buddhist monks were stopping in Chesterfield, Va., during their 120-day, 2,300-mile Walk for Peace, which began in October in Fort Worth, Texas, and will conclude in Washington, D.C. 

“I was very tired and wanted to sleep, but I decided to go,” said Hunter. “I wanted to get pictures for my Instagram page and to spread a message of peace. I am really glad I decided to go.” Hunter was also inspired to attend the walk after seeing photos of the monks on Steward alum [Class of 2025] Ada Long’s Instagram page. 

“It was a surreal experience, seeing how stoic and quiet the monks were, which made a real impact on their message for peace,” said Hunter. “It provoked the idea that they are not doing it for themselves but for everyone else. I believe that if you can get a chance to see them, you should. It is an experience that I will never forget.”