More than 100 climb JMA Dome stairs in 9/11 tribute as SU fall events draw crowds
Over 100 participants honored first responders with a memorial stair climb at the JMA Wireless Dome, while Syracuse University’s fall events brought thousands to campus and downtown. The Dome and nearby venues have seen a surge in community engagement this season.
More than 100 people took part in a memorial stair climb at the JMA Wireless Dome on Friday morning, paying tribute to New York City first responders who died on September 11, 2001, according to Syracuse University News. The event, sponsored by Syracuse University Ambulance, is one of several large gatherings that have marked a busy fall season for Syracuse University and the wider Central New York community.
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The stair climb is just one example of how the JMA Wireless Dome and the university campus have become focal points for both remembrance and celebration this autumn. From football games drawing thousands to career fairs and fundraisers, the Dome and surrounding campus have seen a steady stream of activity, reflecting a broader trend of increased community engagement in Syracuse and neighboring towns like DeWitt and Salina.

By The Numbers
- More than 100: Individuals participated in the 9/11 memorial stair climb at the JMA Wireless Dome, per Syracuse University News.
- 66-3: Final score of Syracuse football’s season-opening win over the University of New Hampshire, according to Syracuse University News.
- Thousands: Fans attended the football home opener at the JMA Wireless Dome, per Syracuse University News.
Fall brings crowds and connection to Syracuse University
The start of the academic year at Syracuse University has brought a wave of events that connect students, faculty, and the wider Syracuse community. The annual Fall Career and Internship Fair, held inside the JMA Wireless Dome, saw employers meeting with students in person, a sign of renewed campus activity. The College of Engineering and Computer Science kicked off its Career Week with a Career Carnival, where alumni and friends reviewed resumes and offered interview tips, according to Syracuse University News.
Other events have included the Empty Bowls fundraiser, which brought together Syracuse University, Clayscapes Pottery, The Everson Museum of Art, and The Interreligious Food Consortium to fight hunger in Syracuse. The OttoTHON “Pie an E-Board Member” fundraiser benefited Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, with students and staff participating in lighthearted activities for a good cause.
For those interested in Syracuse schools and campus life, the fall semester has also featured the Libraries Fest, Involvement Fair on the Shaw Quad, and weekly “Take a Break at Bird” sessions at Bird Library, where students gather for crafts, games, and socializing.

JMA Wireless Dome anchors fall traditions and new events
The JMA Wireless Dome has long been a centerpiece for Syracuse sports and community events. This fall, it has hosted not only football games but also memorials, career fairs, and student gatherings. The Dome’s role as a gathering place was especially visible during the 9/11 memorial stair climb, which brought together members of both the university and greater Syracuse communities, according to Syracuse University News.
On September 5, the Dome welcomed fans for the football team’s home opener, where the Orange delivered a 66-3 victory over the University of New Hampshire. The event also marked the debut of new marching band uniforms and drew a diverse crowd of students, alumni, and local residents. The beautiful weather contributed to the festive atmosphere, with fans and even dogs enjoying the pregame tailgate on the Kenneth A. Shaw Quadrangle.
For more on Syracuse sports and upcoming events at the Dome, CNY Signal has ongoing coverage of Orange football, basketball, and other campus activities.
Campus and community unite for service and remembrance
Beyond sports and career events, the fall season at Syracuse University has featured several service-oriented gatherings. The Empty Bowls fundraiser, held in partnership with local organizations, focused on fighting hunger in the city. Meanwhile, the OttoTHON event raised funds for Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, with students and staff participating in playful activities like pie-throwing.
The 9/11 memorial stair climb stands out as a moment of solemn remembrance, with more than 100 participants honoring the sacrifice of first responders. The event was organized by Syracuse University Ambulance and drew attendees from both the campus and the wider Syracuse community, according to Syracuse University News.

Why this matters for Central New York residents
The surge in campus and Dome events this fall is more than just a return to tradition. For residents of Syracuse and neighboring towns like DeWitt and Salina, these gatherings offer opportunities to connect, support local causes, and celebrate community spirit. The JMA Wireless Dome, located near key roads like I-81 and I-690, is accessible for fans and families from across Central New York.
Events like the 9/11 memorial stair climb and Empty Bowls fundraiser highlight the Dome’s role as a place for both celebration and service. The influx of students, alumni, and visitors also brings energy to local businesses along Erie Blvd and in downtown Syracuse, especially during football Saturdays and campus festivals.
Looking ahead: More events on the horizon
With the fall semester in full swing, Syracuse University and the JMA Wireless Dome are set to host more sports, career, and community events. The Dome remains a central gathering place for Orange fans, students, and residents from across Onondaga County and beyond. For ongoing updates on campus happenings and local school news, visit our CNY education page.
Where to check for updates
For the latest on Syracuse University events and JMA Wireless Dome activities, visit the Syracuse University News website. For more on local sports and school news, check CNY Signal’s Syracuse schools and Syracuse sports pages.
📷 Wikimedia / Wikipedia , JMA Wireless Dome , CC BY-SA 4.0 / Public Domain (verify per file)
Sources
- Syracuse University News, event participation, campus activities, and Dome gatherings