The morning of September 11, 2024, began solemnly with a moving ceremony held at the Branford Fire headquarters, 45 N. Main Street, where sophomore math major, Nick Schettino, served as the keynote speaker. Schettino’s personal connection to the events of 9/11 is profound — his grandfather, Joseph Higgins, was a dispatcher with the New York City Fire Department on that fateful day. Schettino’s speech captured the spirit of remembrance, appreciation, and resilience that marked the day’s events.
“It is my honor to be the keynote speaker at this year’s annual 9/11 ceremony,” Schettino began, addressing the crowd. He reflected on his grandfather’s dedication to ensuring that the memory of 9/11 would never fade. “Joe feared that the next generation would only know of this great tragedy through their history books,” he said, emphasizing the importance of ceremonies like this one to keep the memory alive. He went on to share Higgins’ belief in the enduring courage and commitment of first responders: “We need to continue to communicate to our children and grandchildren how fortunate we are that our first responders answer our calls for help, no matter the time of day or night.”
Schettino’s remarks resonated deeply, particularly his call for the younger generation to appreciate and honor those who serve. “Like many young members of our audience today, I was not there to witness the attacks on our freedom. But in fact, it is for this reason that I stand before you today,” he said. “Remember not just the fire and rubble from that dark September morning, but the indomitable American spirit that stood through it all.” Schettino’s heartfelt message was a powerful reminder of the courage and unity that emerged in the face of tragedy and a tribute to his grandfather’s legacy.
SCSU’s ‘Paws and Reflect’ Combines Reflection with Canine Comfort
Later in the day, Southern Connecticut State University continued its tradition of remembrance with a unique event titled “Paws and Reflect.” Organized for the second consecutive year by Sgt. Cynthia Torres of the SCSU Police Department, the event combined dog yoga with a solemn reflection on the events of September 11th. Torres, who was on duty on 9/11, emphasized the importance of maintaining awareness of the day’s significance. “I wanted to make certain that we honor the day and that we keep it sort of in the forefront of the narrative for both our students and our community,” she said.
The event featured a yoga session led by Stephanie Corbeil, founder of TAO Dog Yoga and Adventures, with participation from the university’s K-9 facility dog team. The dogs provided comfort and a unique form of therapy, helping participants process the emotions tied to the memory of 9/11.
Sgt. Torres hopes to continue the event annually, recognizing its role in bringing the community together to remember and reflect. This combination of solemn remembrance and mindful reflection provided a day of healing and unity for the SCSU community.
Read more:
NBC CT: ‘Paws and Reflect’ event combines dog yoga and solemn Sept. 11 reflection at CT university (Jennifer Cuevas, Sept. 11, 2024).
WTNH: Service dogs help Southern Connecticut State University students reflect on 9/11 (Braley Dodson, Sept. 11, 2024).
