While there were more students at SUNY-Ulster's 9/11 remembrance ceremony than there were administrators or professors, most of the students do not have vivid memories of that day and the aftermath.

"How can they remember what they have never experienced?" mused speaker and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Kevin Stoner, as if to challenge those in the room to find new ways of presenting this piece of American history to the youngest college students.

The SUNY-Ulster Choir opened and closed the ceremony.

Students from a public speaking course moved Monday's class to the Clinton Building for this event.

A group of veterans who are now studying at SUNY-Ulster were also there.

Most of them were toddlers — or younger — when the attacks happened.

Some, like Student Government President Maggie George, can remember some important aspects from that day, like the solidarity Americans had afterward. Considering today's political climate in America, solidarity is an especially important lesson, George told her peers.

"With the divide we have as of right now, we should really start coming together," said George, who also helped organize Monday's event.

The newest students certainly do not remember that much.

SUNY-Ulster President Dr. Alan Roberts said that this year's freshman class is the first to have students — albeit few — who were not born by September 11, 2001.

Because of that, campus leaders said they have been making special efforts in recent years to involve young people in events like Monday's.

They hope some students become inspired to serve, in the way many did following the attacks.

"Right now, we need more volunteers," SUNY-Ulster Veterans Coordinator Manuel Torres said after the ceremony. "I think, if anybody wants to commit and help in some way — if you can't join the military, volunteer for your local fire department. Volunteer for your local ambulance [service]. Volunteer to serve your community."

The freshmen were not the youngest in the room.

We ran into a mother, who brought her four home-schooled children — ages 7, 9, 11 and 12 — there for a field trip, and some perspective.

"I think it helps them," said the mother who asked not to be named, "for them to see other people who have taken the time to contribute to the ceremonies."