In honor of those lost on 9/11

Dear DU community members,

Like 2001, this year has been marked by loss. COVID-19 and 9/11 are, of course, vastly different tragedies, but the feelings of deep sadness, of anger and disbelief, and the knowledge that we are collectively navigating a critical moment in history—these resonate with our memories of the attacks on September 11, 2001.

Each year, this day brings with it solemnity and grief. We are in many ways a very different country because of 9/11, as I think we will be a very different world because of COVID-19. But, just as we saw 19 years ago, so many of us are doing what we can to help and support one another. We are tapping into our resilience and our empathy and putting the needs of our community first.

We will never forget 9/11, nor will we forget those we lost. Today, DU will toll our bells 19 times at 8:46 a.m. marking the time when the first plane hit the north tower of the World Trade Center in New York City (EDT). The tolls are meant to mark each year that has passed since, to honor all those that were lost, and to recognize the first responders, and volunteers who saved lives, risking their own, on that day and those that followed. Please take a moment to note this time and pause in your own busy lives to reflect and remember this tragic time and all who sacrificed for others.

The hardest times call upon our highest selves, and we meet that call again and again—then, now, and tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Jeremy Haefner
Chancellor