DuBOIS, Pa. — Penn State DuBois commemorated the 22nd anniversary of Sept. 11 with a solemn memorial event and a heartwarming day of service, highlighting the campus’s commitment to honoring the past and serving the local community.

The memorial event took place on campus at the Schoch Plaza, where the flag poles display the United States and Pennsylvania flags, as well as the veteran’s memorial. Students, faculty and staff gathered to remember the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001.

The Penn State DuBois community paid their respects by observing a moment of silence. The event provided an opportunity for reflection and unity, ensuring that the memory of those lost on that fateful day is never forgotten.

On Sept. 9, Penn State DuBois students demonstrated their commitment to community service by working with The Soul Platter Café in DuBois, a “pay what you can” establishment where individuals and families can take in the restaurant experience and not be turned away if they don’t have funds to pay for what they receive. Students spent the day working alongside the cafe staff to prepare food for those in need.

Hannah Allen, a third-year human development and family studies major student at Penn State DuBois, was one of the students who participated in the day of service. Reflecting upon the service, Allen said it was eye-opening and very impactful.

"It’s very easy to forget that issues exist in our community, such as people not having easy access to the food they need,” Allen said. "Being able to get out and serve our community and to help those in need was a very gratifying experience that I'll definitely remember."

“It is such a blessing to have the youth volunteer and pitch in with various tasks at the Café,” Crystal Rishell of The Soul Platter Café said. “What a wonderful way to fulfill our mission of providing service to those in the community.”

The day of service at The Soul Platter Café and the September 11th memorial event emphasized Penn State DuBois's commitment to fostering a sense of unity, empathy, and shared responsibility among its students and the surrounding community. The week highlighted Penn State DuBois's dedication to honoring the past, supporting the community, and shaping future leaders with a strong sense of social responsibility.