ARCOM Mourns Tragic Loss of Medical Students Hannah Ford and Megan Herrold
It is with the deepest sorrow and heaviest hearts that we share the devastating news of the sudden and tragic passing of two remarkable young women — Hannah Ford and Megan Herrold, both cherished members of the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) Class of 2026. Their lives were cut tragically short, leaving a profound void in the hearts of their families, friends, classmates, professors, and the entire ARCOM community.
The circumstances surrounding their untimely passing have shaken those who knew and loved them. As future physicians, both Hannah and Megan were driven by compassion, intellect, and a shared commitment to serving others. Their loss is not only a personal tragedy to those close to them, but also a loss to the future of medicine, where their talents, empathy, and brilliance would have no doubt touched countless lives.
Remembering Hannah Ford
Hannah Ford was a beacon of strength, humility, and purpose. Described by classmates as incredibly bright, kind, and selfless, Hannah had an unwavering passion for healthcare and a dream of making a difference in underserved communities. Originally from [insert hometown if known], she brought a unique warmth and determination to ARCOM that inspired everyone she met.
She balanced her academic responsibilities with grace and was admired not only for her dedication but also for her ability to uplift those around her. Whether she was tutoring peers, volunteering at clinics, or sharing a laugh during long study nights, Hannah left a mark on all who crossed her path.
Remembering Megan Herrold
Megan Herrold, equally beloved, was known for her vibrant spirit, compassionate heart, and deep intellectual curiosity. Her pursuit of a medical degree was driven by a deep desire to heal and to serve. Megan possessed a natural gift for connecting with others — she made people feel heard, seen, and valued.
Her friends and faculty remember her as someone who could light up a room with her energy and humor, while never losing focus on her goals. Whether in the anatomy lab, study groups, or community outreach events, Megan exemplified what it meant to lead with love and empathy.
A Devastating Loss for ARCOM
The Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine has issued a statement mourning the loss of two of its own:
“Hannah and Megan were more than students — they were part of the fabric of our ARCOM family. Their presence brought light and hope to our halls. We are heartbroken, and our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends, and classmates during this unimaginable time. We will remember their lives, their dreams, and the impact they made in such a short time.”
Grief counseling and support services have been made available to ARCOM students and staff in the wake of this tragedy. A memorial ceremony is being planned on campus, where classmates, faculty, and loved ones will gather to honor their memory and legacy.
Honoring Their Legacy
In tribute to Hannah and Megan, ARCOM leadership is considering establishing memorial scholarships in their names to support future students who embody their values of compassion, perseverance, and service. It is a fitting way to ensure that the light they brought into the world continues to shine, even in their absence.
Friends, mentors, and fellow students have also launched an initiative to plant memorial trees on campus, a living symbol of the lives they touched and the growth they inspired.
Final Thoughts
The loss of Hannah Ford and Megan Herrold is immeasurable. Both women were on the cusp of remarkable careers and futures defined by service and healing. While their time on earth was far too short, their legacies — as future physicians, daughters, friends, and role models — will live on in the stories shared, the hearts they touched, and the mission they pursued with passion.
To know Hannah and Megan was to witness two bright stars — and though they are gone, their light endures.
Rest in peace, Hannah and Megan. Your dreams, your compassion, and your spirits live on in all of us.