9/11 Candlelight Memorial
Vanderbilt University continued to honor the memory of those whose lives were lost on September 11, 2001 with an open candlelight memorial in Benton Chapel. The memorial was open from 9 am until 5 pm. Inside, guests could light an electric candle and leave it upon the altar in memory of those who were lost. A guest book was provided for signing as well.
In conjunction with this memorial, the bells of the Kirkland Hall tower were rung at 7:52 am as well as 8:02 am four times each to signify the four planes that crashed on that morning. In the afternoon, the Vanderbilt Interfaith Council held a discussion of the day and the meanings and implications of 9/11 in today’s interfaith world in the Fireside Lounge of the Office of the University Chaplain and Religious Life.
Also, for the anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the Vanderbilt College Republicans initiated a project in memory of this tragic event.
There are many statistics from this day that are presented in the news and through the media that we feel are difficult for people to fully comprehend. To resolve this, the College Republicans set up a display of 2,977 American flags on the lawn in front of Central Library for the whole day on 9/11/13. This “9-11: Never Forget” project invoked the memory of nearly 3,000 citizens in a tangible and appreciable form to the Vanderbilt and Nashville community.
While we remember everyone who was affected by the events of that day, we especially remember those who were Vanderbilt Alumni who were a part of this tragedy.
Davis Grier “Deeg” Senza, Jr. 1978-2001
Mark Hindy 1973-2001
Terence E. “Ted” Adderley Jr. 1979-2001
Anyone in need of someone to speak with about their grief or loss can call the Office of the University Chaplain and Religious Life at 322-2457. We are a safe and confidential source on campus that is available for counseling, care, and pastoral needs.