University Rededicates ‘Unity’ Memorial
09/06/2011
By
Julia GavinAs the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks approaches, groups across the country are planning ceremonies to commemorate the loss of nearly 3,000 victims on that day.
For its part, the University will extend recognition of Sept. 11 throughout the week, with a series of events and volunteer opportunities. Members of the University community won’t be alone when it comes to volunteering. More than 1 million Americans are expected to pay their respects by volunteering on Sept. 11, which is designated as a National Day of Service and Remembrance.
On Sept. 8, UMass Lowell will honor those lost in the attacks, including seven victims with ties to the University, by rededicating the "Unity" memorial sculpture in an 11 a.m. public ceremony attended by families of the victims, University representatives and local officials.
"Unity," located behind Leitch Hall at 111 Pawtucket St., was designed by a group of artists — including University alumni Rebekah Hermans, Gail Milligan and Janet Wittlinger — for Prof. Jim Coates’ public art course. It was originally dedicated in 2003 to the University community members lost in the Sept. 11 attacks: Douglas A. Gowell ’71; Robert Hayes ’86; Brian Kinney ’95; John A. Ogonowski ’72, who was the pilot of American Airlines Flight 11; Patrick J. Quigley IV, who was the husband of a UMass Lowell graduate; Jessica Leigh Sachs, whose parents are alumni; and Christopher Zarba, who studied at the University in the 1970s.
The ceremony will feature remarks from Chancellor Marty Meehan and Lowell Mayor James Milinazzo, as well as readings honoring those the sculpture memorializes, music and the presentation of colors.
Additional Events Commemorating 9/11
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Blood Drive, Sept. 6, 1 to 6 p.m., Inn & Conference Center
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Blood Drive, Sept. 8, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cumnock Hall
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Lessons of September 11, Sept. 9, 12 to 1:30 p.m., O'Leary Library Room 222
- Join a discussion forum featuring Prof. James Forest and Prof. Deina Abdelkader among others discussing how the events of Sept. 11 have affected American and international policy.
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Donation Drive for Veterans' Service Organizations through Sept. 14
Clothing, food and toiletries will be accepted at the Center for Arts and Ideas (Durgin Hall Room 116) for the Community Teamwork Inc. drive.
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Community Flag-Raising, Sept. 9, 10 a.m., Lowell City Hall, 375 Merrimack St.
The City of Lowell invites University community members to a flag-raising as part of a national ceremony of observance.