The University canceled classes today in recognition of the National Day of Prayer and Remembrance set aside by President George W. Bush to remember the victims of Tuesday's terrorist attacks.
"To honor the dead, most still uncounted, unknown and unrecovered, the University will cancel all classes tomorrow," said University President John T. Casteen III, in an press release.
University offices that do not provide essential services also will be closed between 11:30 and 1:30 today.
In lieu of classes, the University will host several events today to celebrate the national day of remembrance.
At noon, Casteen will lead a service of reflection and meditation in University Hall. The service will include singing, faculty members reading poetry and an address from Casteen, University spokeswoman Louise Dudley said.
The University also will hold a candlelight vigil at 8 p.m. in the Amphitheater to give community members a chance to reflect on the week's events.
"Each night since the attacks occurred, students and others have gathered at various locations on the Grounds for vigils, discussions and other expressions of concern, grief and unity," Casteen said. "I invite anyone who may wish to do so to join other members of the University ... for an hour of silence."
In addition to the public meetings, students in the Architecture School are creating a temporary wall along the east fence of the University tennis courts near University Avenue. Between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., community members are invited to attach notes, flowers or images as a memorial to those lost in the attacks. A dedication ceremony will follow immediately.
Dudley said she can think of only one day within the last eight years when the University has canceled classes, that time for a snowstorm.
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