We Love NY

The response to September 11 was an affirmation of the American spirit as Independent Sector colleges and universities in New York State joined with people across the nation in a demonstration of resiliency and resourcefulness.

First came the crashes and the shock. Then came action — to help, to save, to protect, to be there for any need. New York’s private colleges and universities were engaged in every possible way, doing what it is they do best: reaching out through direct care to rescue workers, helping us learn more about the attacks at educational forums, or offering their campuses as places where people could come together to reflect, to heal, and to pray. We’re proud of the response shown by all New Yorkers, including the students, staff, and faculty of our private colleges and universities, who responded as any neighbor would to another in need.

Ways of caring.

These highlights are but five examples of hundreds of initiatives by New York State private colleges and universities:

1. Healing.
Foot care for weary rescue workers continues at Ground Zero 24 hours a day as recovery efforts continue.

2. Sharing.
Students fill a 50-foot-long butcher paper letter with notes, poems, and thanks to Ground Zero relief workers.

3. Reflecting.
Candlelight vigils and prayer services unite people of all faiths and provide a time to grieve and repair.

4. Educating.
Community forums and faculty presentations examine social, political, and religious issues, and technical workshops address bioterrorism weapons and the environmental impact of the World Trade Center attack.

5. Remembering
Numerous New York State Independent Sector colleges and universities are formulating plans for special scholarships for families directly affected by the September 11 attack.