September 8, 2023

Dear UD Community,

Twenty-two years have passed since the terrorist attacks of 9/11, which threatened the freedoms that we all enjoy. The effects of that tragic day continue to reverberate throughout our society in the ways we travel, work and live. There are several opportunities in our community to recognize, remember and reflect on this anniversary.

The University of Delaware and the City of Newark will host a Patriot Day remembrance ceremony on Monday, Sept. 11, at 8 a.m., on the north side of Memorial Hall on The Green. All are welcome to attend. In addition, flags on the UD campuses will be flown at half-staff in memory of those who died, and the UD Carillon will toll at four times — 8:46 a.m., 9:03 a.m., 9:37 a.m. and 10:03 a.m. — to mark each moment that one of the airplanes crashed.

On this anniversary, it is also important that we put our words into action. The City of Newark has organized a Patriot Day volunteer service event at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, at Olan Thomas Park. I encourage you to find such an opportunity to serve our community in whatever way is meaningful to you.

As we remember 9/11 this year, it is essential that we, as the University of Delaware community, recommit ourselves to our shared values, building a better future together.

Sincerely,

Dennis Assanis President