Reflecting on September 11
To the Campus Community:
September 11, 2001, a moment etched into our collective memories, remains one of the
most solemn days in our nation’s history—a day marked by profound loss, unimaginable
tragedy, and enduring grief.
But out of that dark day came something remarkable: a unified voice and a reminder
that we are one nation. In the face of crisis, Americans came together—putting aside
differences in background, belief, and politics. Communities rallied, we reached out
to help strangers. Compassion and empathy became guiding lights in that time of uncertainty.
Here at Farmingdale and across the country, that spirit of unity reminds us of what
we are capable of when we lead with kindness and mutual respect. I am hopeful that
as we reflect on this hallowed date, we not only honor the lives lost, lives changed
forever, and heroic actions taken by so many, but we recommit ourselves to fostering
a more compassionate and connected community.
The lessons of 9/11—empathy and the importance of unity—should inspire values that
we would be proud to share with our children. In a time when divisive language and
rhetoric can feel overwhelming, we must remember that we are one nation, and what
unites us is greater than what divides us.
September 11 should remind us to carry forward the spirit of goodwill that defined
our community response to that catastrophe. To share this spirit as educators, students,
and community members is a responsibility that we all should own. A responsibility
to remember and to help break down the barriers—real or perceived—that stand in the
way of our collective future.
As we we honor the memory of those we lost, the bravery of those who responded, and
the binding spirit we found during that difficult time in our national history, I
hope that spirit can emerge and continue to inspire us in the days ahead.
Robert S. Prezant, PhD
President
Professor of Biology
