ABERDEEN, S.D. — Northern State University invites students, faculty, staff, alumni, veterans, first responders and community members to participate in a Day of Remembrance, Service and Community on Friday, Sept. 11, marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. The events are designed to honor those who lost their lives, recognize the courage and sacrifice of first responders and provide meaningful opportunities for reflection and service.

The day will begin with a 9/11 Memorial Ceremony from 9 to 9:45 a.m. at the west entrance of Dacotah Bank Stadium. The ceremony will bring together the campus and greater Aberdeen community to remember those lost on Sept. 11, honor first responders and reflect on the enduring spirit of service and resilience through special tributes including Taps and bagpipe performances.

Following the ceremony, participants will have the opportunity to take part in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Dacotah Bank Stadium, sponsored by Aberdeen Fire Rescue and Aberdeen Firefighters Local 446. Participants will complete 2,200 steps, symbolizing the 110 stories of the World Trade Center towers and honoring the firefighters who climbed those stairs in service to others on Sept. 11, 2001.

Northern's Campus Activities Board will also host a 9/11 Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Kessler's Champion Club at the Barnett Center. Community members are encouraged to donate blood as a tangible act of service and remembrance. Registration is required.

"All Americans of a certain age know exactly where they were when they learned of the 9/11 attacks," said Sean Blackburn, dean of students at Northern State University. "We still remember what it felt like — the sadness and fear for those impacted, as well as the deep respect and amazement we felt for the brave first responders who answered the call. We hope this day provides the entire community an opportunity to reflect, come together and give back.

"Our nation was forever changed on September 11, 2001," Blackburn said. "Twenty-five years later, we continue to honor those who were lost and the heroes who responded. Through remembrance, service and community, we can ensure that their legacy endures."

The 2026 9/11 Memorial events are sponsored by Community Service and Civic Engagement, Aberdeen Fire Rescue, Aberdeen Firefighters Local 446, the Campus Activities Board, the Military Veterans Club of Northern and NSU Military and Veteran Affairs.

For complete event information and registration details, visit northern.edu/911-memorial or contact Student Affairs at 605-626-3007.