Southern Miss NPHC Chapter and NCS4 to Honor 9/11 Victims, First Responders
Tue, 08/20/2013 - 09:05am | By: Alison Crumpton
The University of Southern Mississippi chapter of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) will host a “9/11 Observance Reception” Wednesday, Sept. 11 to recognize and promote charitable services and other community outreach efforts that honor the victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
In addition, a 111-pound piece of twisted steel from the World Trade Center will be unveiled in its new permanent home on the 2nd floor at the Trent Lott National Center on the Southern Miss campus.
“The 9/11 Sports Safety and Security Memorial signifies the university's commitment to NCS4 to provide research, education and training to address safety and security issues at sporting events throughout the United States,” said Dr. Gordon Cannon, vice president for Research at Southern Miss.
“We are thrilled about housing this important artifact on our campus,” said NCS4 Director Lou Marciani. “Generations to come will visit our university to come see the memorial and remember what happened and what Southern Miss is continually doing to keep others safe.”
The 9/11 Observance Reception will be held in the Trent Lott National Center on the Hattiesburg campus at noon, with retired Col. Sheila Varnado as the keynote speaker. The Southern Miss ROTC will begin the program with the presentation of colors. At the conclusion of the ceremony will be the official unveiling of the 9/11 Sports Safety and Security Memorial, located at the Southern Miss Trent Lott National Center.
“The goal of the program is to remember and pay tribute to the 9/11 victims, honor first responders who provided assistance following the attacks and remind people of the importance of working closer together in peace to improve our world through community service,” said Don Holmes, president of the Mu Xi Chapter - Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at Southern Miss. “We are excited to partner with NCS4 to expand our program with the addition of the 9/11 memorial.”
Faculty, staff, students and the general public are invited to attend. Refreshments will be provided from 11:30-noon and directly following the ceremony around 1 p.m.
For more information about this event, contact Don Holmes at Donald.HolmesFREEeagles.Mississippi.