“Remember where we were that day.” declared our Associate Vice President for Student Development, Francisco Díaz.

On the early morning of Sept. 11, 2025, students, members of faculty, police officers and the Wayne Fire Department stood strong in support of raising our American flag to show the highest level of appreciation due to our first responders on the tragic day.

343 New York fire fighters and 1 patrolman lost their lives as a result of the September 11 terrorist attacks, whilst many other citizens and first responders passed away or were otherwise severely injured. 

Families were left destitute, and the cries of a nation were depicted throughout every newspaper and media platform in the following hours and weeks to come. 

Yet, as we marched around the Zanfino, wrote letters dedicated to our responders and watched as the signal of hope of our nation was raised, we not only understood the gravity of the lives lost, but also the courage and honor that was signified by the rescue team on that day.

Some of us may not have been present, we may not even have been born then, but the effect of this tragedy is still with us. 

Likewise, the memories of the heroism of those who defended and continue to protect the livelihood of this country, as well as put our minds and hearts at ease, have been passed down. Therefore, as we continue each day, let us pass on this remembrance to our friends, family and even coworkers, because it is not just one day of commemoration, but as we pursue our education to make this country and the broader world a more peaceful place, let us also demonstrate the courage our first responders showed that day.

Within the classroom, we study ethics, learn about leadership, and know the history of our nation, however, lessons such as these cannot be simply learned, it must be lived, and that is the impression, I believe, should be left on all of us from moments like these.