A quarter of a century has passed since the terrorist attacks that occurred on Sept. 11, 2001.

This week, East Tennessee State University will commemorate the 25th anniversary of those attacks with events on Friday, Sept. 11. The day will offer the university and the surrounding community opportunities to remember those who lost their lives and reflect on the lasting impact of that day.

9/11 25th Anniversary Ceremony of Remembrance

ETSU Military and Veteran Services will host a remembrance ceremony from 8-9 a.m. at the ETSU Amphitheatre. Kingsport Chamber CEO and retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Miles Berdine will serve as the guest speaker.

9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

Later that morning, ETSU will host a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at William B. Greene Jr. Stadium. In partnership with ETSU Army ROTC, participants will, at their own pace, climb 110 floors, or approximately 2,200 steps, representing the height of the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers. In the event of inclement weather, the event will be moved to the ETSU/Ballad Health Athletic Center (Mini Dome).

Both the ceremony and stair climb are free and open to the public. Community members are invited to attend either or both events as ETSU marks this significant anniversary through remembrance, reflection and service.

A Nation Remembered

In the evening, the Faculty & Friends Chamber Series at the Martin Center for the Arts opens with “A Nation Remembered: 250 Years of America, 25 Years Since 9/11.” The concert will explore the many facets of the American musical experience, from beloved patriotic works to powerful reflections on history, community, and resilience.

The evening will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the ETSU Foundation Grand Hall. Sponsored by the Department of Music, this event is free and open to the public, but tickets must be reserved on the Martin Center website.

The events of Sept. 11 remain a defining moment in American history, remembered not only for the lives lost but also for the courage, service and acts of compassion that followed. For ETSU, the anniversary provides an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, veterans and community members to come together in remembrance and honor those whose lives were forever changed.

“Twenty-five years later, it is important that we continue to remember the lives lost and the tremendous courage and sacrifice demonstrated in the days and years that followed,” said Col. (Ret.) Dan Bishop, director of Military and Veteran Services. “Events like these give our ETSU campus community the opportunity to come together, reflect on that day and ensure future generations understand its significance.”