The duo represented the town in the United States for the last nine months and Mary-Ann described it as “such an honour”.
She said: “I have learnt so much about the place I am from and the impact it had on people across the world. Representing Lockerbie also provided me with the opportunity to meet some truly inspiring people, including Anna Marie Miazga, the mother of Pan Am flight 103 victim Suzanne Marie Miazga.
“I believe that although a Lockerbie scholar’s time studying at Syracuse is only nine months, you will never stop being a representative.
“I think that once the remembrance programme has touched your life, you will carry its values and responsibilities with you for the rest of your life.”
Mary-Ann and Aidan have been involved in numerous “amazing” projects, including being part of the remembrance committee in memory of those who lost their lives in the disaster.
Aidan said: “The people I have met here are definitely what has made this experience so remarkable. I am blessed to have worked with such an exceptional remembrance cohort throughout the year.
“Though the remembrance was different to usual, in a primarily virtual setting, we still managed to work very well together, promoting the remembrance motto: “Look Back, Act Forward”.
“To meet and work with such talented and committed students was a whole experience in itself.
“From all the events we ran to my interview with University newspaper, ‘The Daily Orange’, to presenting my speech at the university’s annual service of commemoration, I can say that this year with remembrance has really helped me grow.”
He added: “This year has been spectacular in so many ways. It has been uplifting and inspirational, it has been solemn and poignant.
“Few words can summarise how thankful I am to have been selected for this opportunity. I have grown so much as a person and Syracuse will always hold a special place in my heart. It is no secret I will miss it here. It is like a second home to me!”
