A Letter from the President: Remembering September 11
9/8/21
Mercer County Community College joins with the citizens of Mercer County and millions of people across this country and around the world to honor those who lost their lives 20 years ago in the tragedy of 9/11.
It has been a cherished tradition at MCCC to gather annually on the West Windsor Campus in a solemn ceremony of remembrance. Once again, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted our in-person commemoration. But the pandemic does not diminish the importance of reflecting on the tragic events of that day and acknowledging the sacrifices of so many. Now more than ever, we must remain united in our shared values and the desire to serve those in need.
Close to 30 people who died in the terror attacks were Mercer County residents, making our connection to this national tragedy even more acutely felt. Although time may soften the sharp edges of our collective anguish, it will never erase the heartache we feel for those men, women and children – 2,977 in all.
Twenty years ago on Sept. 11, these innocent souls became the target of a mindset that places little value on human life and rejects the ideals that Americans embrace – freedom, liberty, equality, unity, and justice for all. For hundreds of years, these ideals have been our bedrock and our beacon.
It is important for us to remember that the victims came from different backgrounds with a broad range of values and perspectives. Appreciating that diversity and recognizing our shared humanity exemplifies what it is to be an American.
As we continue to address the global public health crisis, we are reminded of how resilient we truly are and what we can accomplish when we are unified. Working together – whether in person or virtually – we can continue to create and flourish. We can continue to demonstrate the values of unity and service. It’s what keeps us whole and what best honors the memory of the victims of 9/11.
To view MCCC’s Sept. 11 memorial video, which pays tribute to those who served and died on Sept. 11, 2001, visit the college’s YouTube page. To learn more, visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum site here. Click here to find volunteer opportunities near you.
Now more than ever, let each of us do our part.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jianping Wang
MCCC President
