Clemson University students, faculty, and staff are joining together to host a 9/11 Remembrance Stair Climb in Memorial Stadium on Wednesday, September 11. The event begins with welcome remarks at 8:30 a.m., followed by the start of the climb at 8:45. Limited spots remain, and registration is required for the free event.

“The goal of this event is to remember the 9/11 tragedy with the spirit of 9/12,” said Jimmy Mullinax, Executive Director of Military Affairs. “As events unfolded in 2001, first responders didn’t stop … they kept going. We are honoring them by having participants climb the stadium steps or walk the concourse at a comfortable pace. Our timeline matches when the events unfolded that day, and participants are encouraged to walk as much as they would like while we honor first responders.”

Last year, members of Clemson Fire & EMS walked in full gear for the better part of two hours as the event drew hundreds to Clemson’s football stadium. The university’s Public Safety areas are again participating and supporting this year’s event, along with Upstate Warrior Solution, several campus partners and student organizations.

Following welcome remarks and the national anthem, the timeline of announcements will come over the stadium’s public address system at 8:45. The climb commences five minutes later. Closing remarks will be delivered by Anna Courie, chief well-being officer at Clemson. She previously served as the director of responder wellness for AT&T’s FirstNet, the only nationwide wireless communications network designed and built specifically for first responders.

Participants are encouraged to sign thank-you cards for first responders, which will be delivered to volunteers on Sept. 12. Questions about the event can be directed toward Emily DaBruzzi of Military & Veteran Engagement at [email protected] or via phone at 864-656-9793.

Philip Sikes, Clemson University

September 2, 2024