As Clemson University prepares to mark the 25th anniversary of September 11, the campus community will have two meaningful opportunities to come together in remembrance, reflection, and gratitude. Through dual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb events, Clemson students, employees, and community members are invited to honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, while recognizing the courage and sacrifice of first responders who answered the call that day and continue to serve today.
The first event, hosted by Clemson’s Military and Veteran Engagement office, will take place at Littlejohn Coliseum. Centered around the theme “110 Floors of Resolve; 25 Years Later, Clemson Remembers,” the memorial stair climb serves as a powerful tribute to the firefighters who climbed the 110 stories of the World Trade Center towers to save lives. Participants will symbolically take on that challenge by climbing the Coliseum stairs, reflecting on the determination, bravery, and selflessness demonstrated in the face of unimaginable adversity.
The Littlejohn event is open to Clemson students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the public. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., with the program starting promptly at 8:30 a.m. Attendees who are unable to climb stairs are encouraged to participate by walking the concourse, ensuring that everyone can be part of this important day of remembrance. Organizers also encourage participants to bring thank-you cards for first responders, which will be delivered to local emergency personnel following the event.
In addition to remembering those who lost their lives on 9/11, the event will honor the dedicated professionals who continue to protect and serve communities every day, including members of the Clemson University Police Department, Clemson Fire Department, and Clemson Emergency Medical Services.
The Eventbrite link for this event is:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/911-memorial-stair-climb-at-clemson-university-tickets-1991781045725.
A second memorial stair climb will be held in Fike Recreation Center, offering another way for the Clemson community to participate. Using the facility’s stair-climb machines, participants can complete their climb while reflecting on the significance of the anniversary and the enduring legacy of service and sacrifice associated with September 11. This event provides a flexible fitness-focused option for those who may prefer a gym setting while still taking part in the shared mission of remembrance.
Sign up for this event here:
https://www.clemsoncampusrec.com/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=6f0a374a-9394-468c-9ab9-3e56829166d6.
Together, these events demonstrate Clemson’s commitment to honoring the memory of the nearly 3,000 lives lost on September 11 and paying tribute to the first responders whose heroism inspired a nation. Twenty-five years later, the lessons of courage, resilience, and unity remain as relevant as ever.
