On September 9, the Seton Hill University community gathered to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Faculty, staff and students met in Cecilian Hall to participate in a candle lighting and memorial service. Jack Ciak, Sc.D. and Dan Burstein, Ph.D. shared their first-hand accounts of the September 11 events in New York City. Sister Maureen O’Brien, S.C., director of Campus Ministry, and Sister Lois Sculco, S.C., vice president for Mission and Student Life, shared prayers for reflection.

With a music and candle light service, students and faculty reflected upon those lost on September 11. Many in attendance shared their personal stories of September 11. One very powerful story came from Ciak who recalled that terrible sight.

“I was working at the foot of Wall Street,” stated Ciak. “I usually worked in Standford, [Ct.], but on that Tuesday morning I was called into the main office in New York City.” Ciak shared his emotional and personal experience with the audience that afternoon, and sorrow could be felt. “I will always remember those images. The people choking, National Guards at every corner.” recalled Ciak. “But memorial events such as these help bring healing.”

Faculty and students want to remember of September 11 every year. “There is an overall feeling of healing and peace that sharing stories brings to a person, and every year I would love to see an event like this happen,” noted Ciak.