Clemson University to Host 3rd Annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Memorial Stadium

Clemson University is set to host its third annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Memorial Stadium on Thursday, September 11, 2025.

The event, organized by the Student Veterans Association, begins with welcome remarks at 8:30 a.m., followed by the start of the climb at 8:45 a.m.

Participants will ascend the stadium stairs, symbolizing the 110 stories of the World Trade Center towers.

This act serves as a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of first responders on September 11, 2001.

“Each year, this event continues to grow and brings our community together to remember those whose lives were impacted by the 9/11 terrorist attacks,” said Jimmy Mullinax, executive director of military affairs.

“We are proud to do our small part by remembering the bravery of the first responders who acted without hesitation to this tragedy, and to support in particular our area first responders who do an incredible job of ensuring Clemson is a safe place to work, live, and study.”

The 9/11 Stair Climb draws hundreds of attendees who pay tribute to first responders and those impacted by the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

Following welcome remarks and the national anthem, a timeline of announcements in conjunction with real-time events that unfolded on 9/11 will come over the stadium’s public address beginning at 8:45 a.m.

The University’s Public Safety groups are participating in this year’s event once again, and Interim Fire Chief Aaron Bunyea is delivering closing remarks at 10:45 a.m.

Bunyea served in the United States Air Force and was deployed to Qatar nine days after the 9/11 attacks.

The event also includes the playing of Taps and a 21-gun salute by Company C-4 of the Pershing Rifles.

Participants should enter the stadium at Gate 1 and are encouraged to sign thank-you cards for area first responders, which will be delivered by volunteers on September 12.

For more information, email Emily DaBruzzi at veteran@clemson.edu.

Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m.