On Friday, September 11, 2026, Rosemont College students will have a meaningful opportunity to participate in a High Impact Friday experience commemorating the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. This community based program centers on the 9/11 Memorial at McKaig Nature Center in Wayne, Pennsylvania, and invites students to remember, serve, and learn through hands on engagement.
Coordinated by Professor John Henderson, the experience combines remembrance, environmental stewardship, and experiential learning related to one of the most pivotal events in American history.
What Students Will Experience
Participants will take part in a thoughtfully designed half day program that includes:
- A guided tour of the McKaig Nature Center with Park Ranger Vytas Masalaitis
- A visit to the Living 9/11 Memorial section of the park
- Hands on environmental stewardship and memorial beautification activities, such as tree planting and ornamental landscaping
- Discussion, reflection, and remembrance
- Community engagement with nonprofit and community partners
- Opportunities to explore leadership, civic responsibility, collaboration, and service
The experience is intentionally designed as a small group, community connected learning opportunity rather than a traditional classroom program. Additional partners may be incorporated as the initiative develops.
Why This High Impact Friday Matters
This project reflects the broader goals of High Impact Fridays by connecting students with real world organizations and meaningful service outside the classroom. Visiting and contributing to the Living 9/11 Memorial allows students to honor those affected by the events of September 11th while actively caring for a living space of remembrance.
The combination of historical reflection and environmental stewardship creates a powerful learning experience. Students will leave behind something lasting, such as new plantings and care for the memorial, while deepening their understanding of civic responsibility and community engagement.
Trip Details & How to Participate
- Date: Friday, September 11, 2026
- Time: 11:00am – 2:00pm (departing campus at 10:45am)
- Location: McKaig Nature Center, Wayne, PA
- Faculty Lead: Professor John Henderson
The program will take place outdoors in the beautifully wooded McKaig Park. Students should dress appropriately in comfortable clothes and are encouraged to wear boots.
Space may be limited based on transportation, site capacity, and project logistics. Students interested in participating should contact Professor John Henderson directly at John.Henderson@Rosemont.edu for more information and to reserve a spot.
Rosemont College High Impact Fridays
Rosemont College launched "High Impact Fridays" in Fall of 2026. It is a voluntary initiative offering diverse experiential learning opportunities outside the traditional classroom. Each week features unique activities designed to foster personal growth, career development, and community connection. Ultimately, the program enriches the Student Life experience by connecting academic concepts with real-world practice and preparing graduates for leadership and rewarding careers. Examples include the American Revolution Museum, the Doylestown Cultural District and the 9/11 Memorial at the McKaig Nature Center.
Explore all the current, future and past High Impact Friday events including recaps with photos of past events by visiting the High Impact Schedule & Sign Up page.
