VOICES Center for Resilience will hold its 2026 Building Bridges Luncheon, “Honoring Stewards of Memory,” on Friday, April 17, at the Country Club of New Canaan. This September marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and the founding of VOICES in response to the attacks.
The annual event recognizes individuals who make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. This year’s luncheon will focus on the enduring importance of remembrance, the commemoration of the lives lost, and the resilience of those who survived.
Brian Williams will serve as master of ceremonies.
The 2026 Building Bridges Award will be presented to Alice Greenwald, former president and chief executive officer of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and James E. Young, world-renowned historian of memory and professor emeritus at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. VOICES said their distinguished careers and leadership, together with their contributions to creating the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, reflect a deep commitment to preserving history for future generations.
Mary Fetchet, VOICES executive director, said, “The milestone of the 25th Anniversary is an important time to recognize those whose dedication and stewardship honors the memory of those who died, the resilience of those who survived, and the way our country came together. In the face of unspeakable tragedy, Alice and James have devoted their careers to this sacred work.”
Dede Bartlett will speak about the impact of Voices Center for Resilience. Craig Schubert, who was working in the South Tower at the WTC on 9/11, will reflect on evacuating the building and his enduring path of resilience.
Ciarán Sheehan will provide a musical performance. He is known for his performances as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway and in Toronto.
Sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available at voicescenter.org. Inquiries may be directed to Sarah Green at sgreen@voicescenter.org or 203-966-3911.
Proceeds from the luncheon will support VOICES’ commitment to provide long-term support for victims’ families, responders, and survivors, as well as community-based programs that assist those affected by loss and grief.
VOICES, formerly Voices of September 11th, was co-founded in 2001 by Mary Fetchet, whose son Brad died in the attacks, and Beverly Eckert, whose husband Sean Rooney perished. From 9/11 to today, the organization has provided long-term support and access to resources for thousands of victims’ families, responders, and survivors. It is also committed to collaborating with partners to help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from tragedy in the United States and abroad.
