A Message from the Chairman of the Board
Over the last year, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum experienced significant growth and recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing it to further its mission to honor the victims of the September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993 terrorist attacks and to educate a new generation with no lived memory of those unforgettable days.
We continue to welcome visitors from around the world, who come to pay their respects and learn from our exceptional exhibitions and dynamic programs. In the 11 years since its opening, more than 59 million people worldwide have visited the Memorial, and in the eight years since opening the Museum, more than 19.5 million people have come to better understand the history of the 2001 and 1993 attacks and their ongoing consequences.
Through an outpouring of support from visitors and donors, as well as through the dedication of the Memorial & Museum staff, we are able to expand public programming, provide world-class exhibition experiences and, most importantly, uphold our fundamental obligation of commemorating the nearly 3,000 people killed through a meaningful and powerful anniversary ceremony on the Memorial plaza. Remembering the loss and tragedy as well as the bravery and generosity of that day has never been more important, and we remain dedicated to bearing witness to the memories of the victims as well as the incredible stories and lessons from that day.
As part of that commitment, we continue to expand the impact of The Never Forget Fund, which was launched last year in conjunction with the 20th anniversary of 9/11. I am truly grateful to the thousands who have visited neverforget.org and joined me in donating to The Never Forget Fund, a vitally important fundraising initiative that directly supports 9/11 Memorial & Museum educational programs to reach the more than 100 million Americans born since 9/11. We owe it to the victims, the families, the first responders, rescue and recovery workers, and future generations to continue this critical work so we can fulfill our promise never to forget.
In addition to the positive developments seen across our programs and activities, 2022 also brought exciting leadership changes as the Memorial & Museum announced Elizabeth L. Hillman – a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, respected historian, and higher education leader with experience managing complex organizations – as its new president and CEO. Additionally, Clifford Chanin was promoted to the 9/11 Memorial Museum Director. Beth and Cliff succeed Alice M. Greenwald, whose exemplary service as president and CEO since 2017 and museum director since 2005 helped create the foundation for us to build upon in the years to come. I am confident that Beth’s fresh perspective and Cliff’s extensive expertise best position the Memorial & Museum to achieve even greater success.
It’s my sincerest hope that you will use this coming year to join with the millions who have visited and supported this vital institution. Only with your support can we continue to share the powerful stories of 9/11 and to uphold our commitment to never forget for generations to come.
Sincerely,
Michael R. Bloomberg