Two decades have passed since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, which claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 people, including 15 alumni. On this 20th anniversary, we invite all to learn about, remember and explore the legacy of these tragic events.
Villanova Remembers 9/11: 20 Years Later

Interdisciplinary Panel Discussion
Wednesday Sept. 8 | 4:30–5:30 PM | Virtual | ACS Approved
Faculty will discuss how 9/11 affected the course of their academic careers and changed the geopolitical landscape.
Attend via this Zoom link.
Panelists
- Tuan Samahon, JD, professor, Law
- Catherine Warrick, PhD, associate professor, Political Science; director, Center for Arab and Islamic Studies
- Joe Evans, doctoral student, Theology; retired lieutenant colonel, US Army
Moderated by Tim Horner, DPhil, teaching professor, Center for Peace and Justice Education
"9/11 Human Library": Firsthand Stories and Reflections
Thursday, Sept. 9 | 4 PM | President's Lounge, Connelly Center | ACS Approved
At this "human library," listen to and dialogue with Villanovans who will share their personal experiences of 9/11 and its aftermath. Rotate to different small-group conversations, each 15 minutes, so that you can hear several stories.
Note. If you are interested in sharing a story, please fill out the form, and we will follow up with you.
Mass
Friday, Sept. 10 | 12:05 PM | St. Thomas of Villanova Church
The names of the 15 alumni who died Sept. 1, 2001, will be read.

Keynote Speaker and Reception*
Friday, Sept. 10 | 3 PM | Riley Ellipse | ACS Approved
Michael Benfante, a 9/11 survivor and the author of Reluctant Hero, will describe that harrowing day, his struggles in the aftermath and lessons learned. Refreshments will follow.
The event also will be livestreamed; watch via this Zoom link.
Rain location: Villanova Room, Connelly Center.
Interfaith Vigil*
Friday, Sept. 10 | 4:30 PM | Rowen Campus Green | ACS Approved
Join us for this solemn remembrance, which will include a candlelight procession, readings from different faith traditions and live music.
The event also will be livestreamed; watch via this Zoom link.
Rain location: Villanova Room, Connelly Center.
9/11 Memorial Display
Wednesday Sept. 8–Friday, Sept. 10 | President's Lounge
Stop in to experience and honor the stories of those who died Sept. 11, 2001, including 15 alumni. A haunting soundtrack features audio clips from the day's live coverage of events.
All events are sponsored by the President's Office, Mission and Ministry, and Student Life.
*Villanova University will be taking photographs during this event. If you attend and do not wish to have your likeness made public, you must advise the photographer at the time the picture is being taken. By consenting to have your picture taken and/or by failing to inform the photographer of your intention not to have your likeness made public, you are authorizing Villanova University to publish in any format, and use for any purposes, your name and affiliation and any photographs taken of you at the Event.