Gar-Field loses principal to cancer

Gar-Field High School Principal Brenda L. Aiken died of cancer Saturday, just two weeks after taking a medical leave of absence.

On Monday, the 53-year-old was remembered as gracious, committed, dignified and “tough as nails.”

Retired Gar-Field principal Roger Dallek took Aiken’s place when she went on a leave of absence May 4. He said Aiken, who became principal of the school on Smoketown Road in 2007, will be remembered for her work at the school.

“Dr. Aiken was a most gracious and courageous person and a student-focused educator,” Dallek said.

Brian Bassett, coordinator of Gar-Field High School’s International Baccalaureate Program said Aiken, who came to Prince William County schools from South County Secondary School in Lorton in 2004, wanted the “very best for students at the school.”

“Dr. Aiken was very committed to instruction and academics. She lived, breathed and slept Gar-Field,” Bassett said in a press release.

Bassett said Aiken was active at the school until the day she left for medical leave.

“I remember telling her the day before she went out on leave that she should rest, but she insisted on being visible and walking the halls. Anyone who saw her knew that she was in pain, but she did not want to be anywhere else,” he said.

Aiken told Bassett that coming to Gar-Field fulfilled her dream of being a high school principal, Bassett said.

James Albright, a former Fairfax County Schools colleague who is now with the District of Columbia Public Schools, said Aiken was brave in her struggle with cancer.

“I think Brenda was tough as nails –– smiling through pain and bad prognoses. I will take her battle as an example of how to survive struggles with dignity. While the outcome may have been on the horizon, she refused to let its bad news dominate her.” Albright said.

Aiken wrote her final message to the students in the school’s April newsletter, the release stated.

“It is my hope that all Gar-Field students and families have renewed their academic goals to include an unflinching commitment to successful completion of the 2008-2009 school year. Our teachers are devoted to helping their students achieve excellence in all endeavors. As educators, we thank you for the support you have provided throughout the school year. Undoubtedly, your support has strengthened the parent/school connection required for student success.”

Aiken is survived by her husband, John, and two adult children, Alyssa and Jason.

Aiken’s viewing will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home at 9902 Braddock Road in Fairfax.

Her homegoing celebration will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Antioch Baptist Church at 6531 Little Ox Road in Fairfax Station.

Manassas Bureau Chief Keith Walker can be reached at 703-369-6751.