USM Students Honor 9/11 Anniversary

On Friday, Sept. 11 2026, Middle School students at University School of Milwaukee attended an assembly to honor the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The assembly was organized and led by Chuck Taft, 8th grade American studies history teacher, and was held outside at the school’s Monument to Military Service. 

During the assembly, Middle School teachers were invited to share their experience on that day in 2001, including what they were doing when they heard the news. Two of the teachers who spoke, Gretchen Mathews ’06 and Emily Vruwink ’04, were students at USM on the day of the attacks.

“The best way to understand the impact, influence, and lasting change caused by 9/11 is through conversation—through our “shared memory,”” said Taft. “We encouraged students to ask family, older friends, neighbors, military veterans, and first responders to share their 9/11 story, and how the event touched their lives. These shared memories not only connect the past to the present, but will also expose students to the power of oral history.”

The event focused on the themes of everyday heroes, first responders, community unity, what it felt like to be a student during 9/11, and more. Students were also encouraged to carry a spirit of reflection, kindness, and service with them throughout the day and beyond. 

USM was featured by Wisconsin Public Radio and CBS58 for its 9/11 anniversary assembly.