Harper College

Harper to commemorate 25th anniversary of September 11 with remembrance ceremony

A depictyion of the New York City skyline with text about Harper's September 11 remembrance ceremonyHarper College will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks with a remembrance ceremony honoring those who lost their lives and the heroes who responded.

The event is set for 11 a.m. Friday, September 11, at the Wojcik Conference Center Amphitheater in Building W on Harper’s Palatine campus, 1200 W. Algonquin Road.

The ceremony will provide a space for the Harper community to remember those lost on September 11, honor the courage and sacrifice of first responders, and reflect on the enduring importance of unity and compassion.

Featured speakers include John “Jack” Schneidwind, a fourth-generation firefighter who volunteered at Ground Zero in the immediate aftermath of the September 11 attacks in New York City. With more than 30 years of service, Schneidwind now serves as chief of the Itasca Fire Protection District.

Tony Butler, Harper’s director of risk management, will share the story of Rick Rescorla, a September 11 hero who served as vice president of security for Morgan Stanley at the World Trade Center and became known for helping evacuate thousands of people. Rescorla was a close friend of Butler’s uncle.

All are welcome at the remembrance ceremony and parking is available in lot 14. For more information, visit events.harpercollege.edu.

Last Updated: 8/28/26