Some moments on campus become more than events, they become part of the story of Immaculata.
Last week, our Spartan community came together for one of those moments, gathering in faith, remembrance, and gratitude to honor the life and legacy of John Collins ’76, a proud Immaculata alumnus, Spartan Hall of Famer, and FDNY firefighter who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001.
John’s connection to Immaculata runs deep. The eldest in a family rooted in Catholic faith and Spartan tradition, he was known for his quiet leadership, strength, and selflessness. These qualities he carried with him from his days at Immaculata into a life dedicated to serving others. Today, his legacy of courage and faith continues to inspire the Spartan community.
Joined by members of the Collins family, first responders, and special guests, our students and faculty had an opportunity not only to remember the past, but also to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and commitment to service that emerged from one of our nation’s darkest days.
Among those joining us was Retired Battalion Chief Joe McHugh, who served alongside John at FDNY Ladder 25, as well as police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, OEM representatives, and other first responders from communities throughout the area.
At the heart of the ceremony was the dedication of a piece of structural steel from the World Trade Center, cut into the shape of a cross and donated to Immaculata in honor and memory of John by the PBA of the Port Authority Police of New York and New Jersey.
Now part of the Immaculata campus, the cross will serve as a lasting reminder of John, those we lost, the families who continue to carry their memory, and the first responders who answered the call to serve.
“It was a truly memorable day for our Immaculata community as we gathered in faith alongside local and New York first responders. We are deeply honored to have this piece of World Trade Center steel as a lasting tribute to our alumnus John Collins, our first responders, and all whose courage and sacrifice continue to inspire us.” shared Amberle Gilroy, Director of Mission Advancement
For Joe D. Dudley II ’95, Director of Student Activities, the ceremony was also a powerful reflection of the lifelong connection shared by members of the Spartan community.
“The ceremony perfectly embodied our alumni motto, ‘Once a Spartan, Always a Spartan.’ Our student body, faculty, administration, clergy, and local emergency services community showed both the Collins family and John’s FDNY family that Spartans always remember and honor their own, and that we will never forget.”
More than 25 years after September 11, John Collins’ legacy of courage, faith, and service continues to have a home at Immaculata. Through his place in the Spartan Hall of Fame and now this powerful symbol of remembrance on our campus, future generations of Spartans will know his story and remember the sacrifices of so many.
