Dear BMCC Community,
Today, we reflect on a date that forever altered the course of our nation—September 11, 2001.
Here in Manhattan, not far from where the Twin Towers once graced our skyline, we are reminded of the profound loss and heartache that occurred. As we reflect on that fateful day, we honor the memory of eight colleagues from Borough of Manhattan Community College. Their contributions to our college and community were immeasurable, and their absence is felt deeply.
As we pause in remembrance, we cannot overlook the impact that the events of 9/11 had on our institution. Thousands of lives were lost, families were shattered, and a sense of safety that we once took for granted was irrevocably altered. Yet, amidst the darkness, we witnessed extraordinary acts of bravery, unity, and resilience. Firefighters, police officers, and ordinary citizens rushed into danger, sacrificing their own safety to save others. Their courage is a testament to the indomitable spirit that defines us as New Yorkers and as Americans. At Borough of Manhattan Community College, we honor not only the memories of those we lost but also the spirit of perseverance that emerged in the days and years that followed.
Fiterman Hall, once a symbol of our progress and innovation, bore witness to the devastation of the attacks. Yet, in the face of adversity, we rose. The reconstruction of Fiterman Hall speaks to our tenacity, our spirit, and our commitment to education. It stands tall today, not just as a building, but as a beacon of hope and renewal—a reminder that even in the darkest of times, we have the strength to rise again.
I know that for some of you, the events of 9/11 are a history you may not have lived through. Many of our students were not yet born when this tragedy unfolded, but that does not diminish the shared history we all hold as part of this community. We are united by our mission to learn, to grow, and to support one another. Our college is a tapestry woven with the experiences of those who have come before us, and it is our responsibility to honor that legacy by carrying it forward. On this day, let us commit ourselves to fostering a community of compassion, understanding, and fortitude, ensuring that the lessons of the past guide our journey into the future.
Let us also recognize the importance of fostering tolerance and dialogue in our community. We must ensure that the tragedies of the past do not divide us but instead inspire us to embrace our diversity, to promote peace, and to work towards a society where empathy prevails over hatred.
Together, we rise, we remember, and we continue to build a future filled with hope and dedication.
Sincerely,
Anthony E. Munroe, President
Borough of Manhattan Community College
Sincerely,
Anthony E. Munroe
President, Borough of Manhattan Community College
