Dear Colleagues,

Like many of you, I remember the morning of Sept. 11, 2001 vividly. I was asleep when my friend and colleague, Dr. Marta Meana, called and woke me up to tell me to turn on the television immediately. Something terrible was happening, she said. 

I remember the horror and disbelief of watching the second plane hit the World Trade Center in lower Manhattan, the attack on the Pentagon, and the plane crashing in a field in Pennsylvania. I watched in disbelief as the towers of the World Trade Center collapsed.

And I knew the world would never be the same. It was something I could not conceive happening. As I spoke with friends, colleagues, and students, there was an ongoing sense of bewilderment and fear wondering what could happen next.

For days, everything seemed to come to a stand still. At UNLV, some professors canceled classes, while others held classes so they could support and talk with their students about what had happened. I remember that one of my close colleagues was in the air when the attacks occurred. His plane was grounded in Ohio, and it took him about a week to make his way home.

Twenty-five years later, I still remember that feeling of disbelief, uncertainty, and shock. That day will forever be ingrained in my memory and forever be a part of our country’s history. 

I also recall the many stories chronicling heroic actions of first responders in the moments, hours, and days following the attacks. We will always remember their courage and sacrifice, along with the memories of the many who lost their lives that day. 

Please take a moment today to remember and reflect, and I encourage you to read this piece about UNLV alumnus Lt. Col. Karen J. Wagner, ’82 – who was killed in the attack on the Pentagon Building.

Sept.11 reminds us of how suddenly the world can change, and of the importance of showing compassion every day and especially coming together when we need to support each other through tragedy.   

Warm wishes, 

Chris Heavey
UNLV Interim President