Highland Park Remembers 9/11 with 25th Anniversary Ceremony

The City of Highland Park held a heartfelt 25th Anniversary Remembrance Ceremony for September 11, 2001, at Ravinia Festival Bennett Gordon Hall. The event occurred on Friday, September 11, 2026, under clear skies reminiscent of the tragic day in 2001.

Inside Bennett Gordon Hall, local and Lake County officials, including representatives from Highland Park and Highwood, gathered for the ceremony. Commencing at 9 a.m. and lasting nearly an hour, the program included the Pledge of Allegiance led by the North Suburban Special Recreation Association and the national anthem sung by Clara Gillis, a 17-year-old senior from Highland Park High School. Despite not being alive in 2001, Gillis expressed gratitude for participating.

The ceremony opened with the Honor Guard from Highland Park Police and Fire Departments presenting the colors. Rabbi Michael Schwab of North Suburban Synagogue Beth El provided the invocation. Mayor Nancy R. Rotering addressed attendees from the stage, reflecting on the horrific events that led to the deaths of 2,977 people. She emphasized the ongoing impact on those still affected today.

Each person impacted was unique and beloved, said Mayor Rotering as she honored the lives lost and those who continue to suffer.

The ceremony included keynote remarks from Police Chief Louis Jogmen and Fire Chief Joseph Schrage, punctuated by a moment of silence. Jogmen highlighted the significance of educating younger generations about the historical event. Schrage acknowledged Highland Park firefighters who assisted with rescue efforts in New York City, asking if any attendees had shared in this service. Two audience members indicated they had.

Mike Moore from the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band performed “Taps” on the bagpipes from a balcony, marking the poignant conclusion of the program. As the ceremony ended, the Highland Park High School string quintet played while the audience departed. U.S. Representative Brad Schneider of Highland Park echoed the need for national unity, reminiscent of the days following 9/11.

Freelance journalist Karie Angell Luc reported on the ceremony for Pioneer Press.