Pfeiffer University Hosts Memorial Stair Climb to Honor 9/11 Victims and First Responders

Pfeiffer University commemorated the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks by hosting a Memorial Stair Climb on Friday, Sept. 11, at the Pfeiffer Center for Health Sciences, located at 245 E. Main St. in Albemarle. The event honored the victims, first responders and all those who made the ultimate sacrifice on one of the most significant days in American history.

The memorial event began with registration at 7 a.m., followed by a remembrance ceremony at 8:46 a.m., the exact time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. The ceremony included the Pledge of Allegiance led by Dr. Susan Greer Fisher, a retired U.S. Army major; the National Anthem performed by the Stanly County Chorale; and a memorial bell ringing by Albemarle Assistant Fire Chief Brad Jenkins.

The official stair climb began at 9:03 a.m., marking the time the second plane struck the South Tower. Before the climb, Steve Burris, a retired U.S. Air Force chief master sergeant and commander of American Legion Post 520, shared his memories of Sept. 11 and spoke about his motivation for participating and encouraging others to take part in the event.

Participants climbed four stories and completed 37 laps, symbolically honoring the courage, sacrifice and resilience demonstrated by first responders and victims during the attacks. With every step, participants reflected on the service and sacrifice of those affected by the tragedy.

The stair climb was open to individuals and teams of two to five members ages 18 and older. Community members, first responders, military personnel from the 235th Combat Airfield Operations Squadron (CAOS) in New London and the 145th Airlift Wing in Charlotte, healthcare professionals, students, alumni, faculty, staff and supporters all participated in the meaningful tribute.

"This memorial stair climb provided an opportunity for our community to come together in remembrance, reflection and gratitude," said Dr. Scott Fisher, Pfeiffer physician assistant program director, retired U.S. Army major and event organizer. "This event would not have been possible without the support of local first responders, government leaders, members of the American Legion and countless community partners."

The Memorial Stair Climb took place at the Pfeiffer Center for Health Sciences and was open to the public. Organizers estimated that more than 100 individuals participated, including first responders, military personnel, Pfeiffer student-athletes and community members. More than 40 volunteers also contributed their time to help make the event a success.