The Onondaga Community College campus community paused to remember the September 11th terrorist attacks on the 20th anniversary of one of the darkest days in our nation's history.
On Friday, September 10th students and College employees took time to share their thoughts on remembrance banners and tie ribbons on trees.
The next day OCC hosted a Memorial Ceremony at the College's 9/11 site outside the Whitney Applied Technology Center. Several years ago a white pine tree was planted there, representing a symbol of peace in the Native American culture. Speakers included OCC Student Veteran Luke Bunner who retired from the United States Army after 20 years of service, Onondaga Hill Fire Department Past Chief James Flynn, and OCC Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer Eunice Williams. Music at the event was provided by Professor Dr. David Rudari and students Justin Mull and Matthew Boycheck.
Two members of the Onondaga Community College family lost their lives as a result of the September 11 attacks. Wendy Faulkner, a 1972 graduate of OCC and one of the College's distinguished Alumni Faces honorees, died at the World Trade Center. A plaque honoring her life and her accomplishments can be found in our Gordon Student Center.
In 2017, Dennis Burgos passed away. Burgos was a beloved member of our Campus Safety and Security Team. Prior to coming to OCC, Burgos was a New York State Trooper who was sent to New York City on September 11th and spent several weeks there. He would contract lung cancer and pass away after a courageous battle.
