Students, faculty, and staff gathered in the South Texas Law atrium Monday for a special 9/11 Remembrance ceremony jointly hosted by the Veteran Law Students Association, the Republican Law Society, the Democratic Law Students Association, and the STCL Houston Federalist Society.
Vanessa Botello, president of the Veteran Law Students Association, opened the event with reflections on one of the most tragic events our nation has experienced, and our promise to never forget “all the precious lives lost.” She also noted the strength and unity of our nation’s response.
President and Dean Michael F. Barry drew a parallel between the 9/11 first responders and how law students should undertake their studies, focusing on the importance of thorough preparation, service, and selflessness. He also noted that the day after 9/11 was 9/12 — when we as a nation became one community and focused on what united us.
“Ultimately, despite our differences, we all stand under this one flag, and as one nation we come together to make sure the rule of law remains — that 200 years from now, we will be a nation of laws, a nation working together. That’s why we must never forget 9/11,” Barry said.
Assistant U.S. Attorney and Ret. Army Lt. Col. Sebastian Edwards recognized the courage and bravery of those who rushed in to save lives on Sept. 11, 2001, honored the veterans at the event, shared personal tributes to brave friends and colleagues he lost in the months and years after 9/11, and noted how different our world is today than in 2001.
Edwards emphasized the core values of all the branches of the U.S. military, noting that the legal profession also has core values that serve it well when taught and adopted into practice.
“Standing here are many who will be a district attorney, a general counsel, a judge,” Edwards said. “I challenge each of you to make strong core values a part of you. Ultimately, you are judged by your character, not your talents.”
In closing remarks, Alyson Medina, vice president of the Veteran Law Students Association, noted, “Many students here have no memory of 9/11, but their lives have definitely been shaped by that day’s events. I ask that you carry with you a compassion for all humanity and a personal resolve to contribute to a hopeful future.”
