On January 4, 1995, God gifted us our beautiful daughter, Alexandra. When the nurse handed her to me, I looked down into her eyes and they actually twinkled — a sight that will forever be etched in my mind. She was a beacon of light and lit up every room she entered throughout her life.
It may be hard for most people to comprehend, but things seemed to come easily to Alexandra. Life’s challenges motivated her to excel, and she performed at levels many people would not imagine. Her athletic achievements were evident in every sport she tried. We encouraged her athletic pursuits, and she chose gymnastics as her primary passion. Winning two New York championships before the age of twelve was extraordinary to us — we knew she was beyond special.
But it wasn’t only her athleticism that made her stand out. She was a model daughter, a loyal friend, and a wonderful sibling. She brought us endless joy from the moment she was born. She competed at nationals in high school (Garden City) and earned an athletic scholarship to George Washington University. She competed for four years, helped raise the level of her team, and helped put George Washington gymnastics on the national map. She was the team captain and was named MVP in her senior year. Everyone considered her a powerhouse.
Her humility set Alexandra apart. She never sought adulation for her achievements and was profoundly humble. Conventional wisdom says there are no words for a loss like this, yet no one could argue that Alexandra embodied Achievement, Beauty, Charm, Commitment, Honor, and Leadership. Her star is indelible in our minds, though, tragically, it was taken from us far too soon.
— Alex and Josephine DeMoura and Family
The Alexandra De Moura Rip Current Awareness Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to saving lives through rip current education and water safety awareness. The Foundation empowers communities with the knowledge needed to recognize and escape dangerous ocean conditions, helping prevent avoidable drowning incidents.
The Alexandra De Moura Scholarship Fund honors Alexandra’s life, leadership, and athletic excellence. The scholarship supports students who reflect her dedication, resilience, and character, ensuring her legacy continues through opportunity and education.
Funds support public education initiatives that teach individuals how to recognize rip currents, understand their dangers, and respond safely if caught in one. Increased awareness and education are proven tools in preventing tragedy.
The Village of Southampton plays a vital role in coastal safety and public preparedness. Proceeds help support local efforts that enhance beach safety initiatives and promote public education related to ocean conditions.
Coopers Beach lifeguards are on the front lines of ocean safety, responding daily to rip currents and protecting beachgoers. Funds raised support lifeguard safety efforts, education, and resources focused on prevention.