SMU Commencement was a fabulous send-off for our 2020 graduates

This is a somber day, as we remember the 2,977 souls of all races, religions and ethnicities that were lost in New York City, Washington, D.C., and outside of Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after terrorists hijacked and deliberately crashed four commercial airliners on September 11, 2001. If you walk across our Main Quad today, notice the flag display on the lawn and our flag flying at half-staff in the victims’ memory. This day reminds us to express our appreciation for the hundreds of first responders who perished in service to the thousands of people trying to escape the Twin Towers, as well as to the many who risk health and safety to serve all of our citizens today.  

Gratefully,
R. Gerald Turner
SMU President