Memorial Service

September 11, 2002 

Culver students from 36 states and 21 countries, faculty, staff and friends gathered at 2 p.m. on the Manuel Green today to observe, as a community, the anniversary of the terrorist attacks of one year ago.

Planned by a student committee, with the help of Dean of the Chapel Tom Steffen, the half-hour outdoor program began with the Color Guard being followed onto the plaza in front of Gignilliat Hall by American flags, carried by the girls drill team and the Lancer Platoon of the Black Horse Troop.

Head of Schools John Buxton reflected on how the community responded to the news a year ago and how it has moved forward, together, since. Assistant Instructor of Science Josh Pretzer, Senior Megan Bean, and Assistant Instructor of English Jen Cerny provided brief personal reflections from the podium and were followed by Brent VanNorman, night officer in charge, playing "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes.  Matthew Daniel, tenor, and adjunct instructor of voice, sang and led the community in singing "God Bless America," and Chaplain Steffen concluded the program with brief remarks and by asking that everyone depart in reflective silence.