Young Harris College commemorates 25th anniversary of 9/11
Young Harris, GA (09/04/2026) — It's hard to believe it's been 25 years since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11 took place in New York and at the Pentagon. For some, it's an event they hear their parents or family members talk about. For others, it's burned into their memory, like it was just yesterday.
For YHC's Assistant Professor of Business Katie Stone, 9/11 is a memory she revisits every year. Her uncle, Frank J. Callahan 50 was a captain of Ladder 35 for the New York Fire Department. He was among the first of the first responders who rushed to the scene after the planes crashed into the Twin Towers. He perished in the collapse of the towers, attempting to rescue those in the buildings.
"My uncle is a hero," Stone said. "On Sept. 11, 2001, he helped without hesitation and lost his life serving others. His legacy impacts me still."
Callahan joined the FDNY in September 1973 fulfilling a childhood dream of becoming a firefighter. After 24 years in the FDNY he rose to captain and joined Ladder 35 a few months later. He often referred to the role as being the only job he ever wanted.
In recognition of the 25th anniversary of a horrific event that stole nearly 3,000 lives from us, Young Harris College will be remembering that day and honoring all those touched by the events. Among the activities that day include:
- Tabling event for handwritten notes. A table will be set up in the RCC on Sept. 9-10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for students to write out personal notes for first responders, thanking them for their service.
- Biscuit giveaway for first responders. First responders throughout the area are being invited to the campus to receive a free breakfast biscuit in appreciation of their sacrifice and service to the area. They'll also receive hand-written notes from students thanking them for their work.
- Moment of silence. Faculty and students will honor the memory of 9/11 with a moment of silence in classes on Friday.
- Stair climbing challenge. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to the challenge to climb 110 flights of stairs on Sept. 11 at the RCC. More details to come.
- YHC Soccer. First responders get free admission to the women's and men's soccer games on Saturday, Sept. 12.
"The 9/11 anniversary is something I will always keep close," Stone added. "It is an emotional and important day to remember those we lost and loved."
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Frank Callahan, uncle of YHC professor Katie Stone, was among the first responders on the scene of 9/11, 25 years ago. He died when the towers collapsed, trying to rescue people inside.