Binghamton University COVID-19 Commemoration

This past year was full of challenge and heartache, but also of compassion and innovation. Students, faculty and staff were invited to come together as a community on March 17, 2021, via Zoom, to acknowledge what was lost and also to celebrate what was gained.

The session was moderated by Sister Rosemary Casaleno of Newman House. Speakers included the following:

Binghamton University Interfaith Council members:

• Brian Freedman, Hillel, Binghamton University
• Rev. Douglas Taylor, Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Binghamton
• Omid Ghaemmaghami of the Bahá’í Faith
• Rabbi Aaron Slonim, Chabad, Binghamton
• Imam Anas Shaikh, Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier (IOST)
• Rev. Rebecca Kindig, United Presbyterian Church Binghamton
• Rev. Elizabeth Ewing, Christ Episcopal Church Binghamton

Other guest speakers included:

• Harvey Stenger, Binghamton University President
• Randall Edouard, Binghamton University Dean of Students
• Ross Mesnick, Speaker of the Student Association Congress

A wordle was created during the Zoom with contributions from the audience. A time of sharing was held following the Zoom, which lasted about an hour.