The panel brings together four security leaders with extensive NYPD and private-sector experience to examine how lessons from 9/11 continue to shape preparedness for large-scale events. Panelists share firsthand experiences responding to September 11 and its aftermath, highlighting community support, public-private partnerships, advanced training, intelligence sharing, and layered security. They discuss evolving challenges including drones, social media, protests, and emerging threats, emphasizing collaboration and continuous preparation to keep people safe.

As the 25th Anniversary NYC Symposium comes to a close the audience is treated to musical performance by the U.S. Army Field Band. The musicians provide moving performances of "Amazing Grace," "Danny Boy," and "America the Beautiful." The audience rises to its feet with a standing ovation.

Closing remarks reflect on 25 years of remembrance, healing and advocacy. They emphasize that preserving memory is an ongoing practice, justice requires sustained commitment, and grief can become action. The remarks highlight the strength of a community that continues to support one another, educate future generations, and advocate for truth, health and dignity. The symposium closes by honoring the past while encouraging everyone to help shape the future. The US Army Field Band is introduced to conclude the program.

Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton is interviewed by award-winning journalist Andrea Mitchell. Secretary Clinton reflects on lessons from 9/11, emphasizing the need to preserve facts, strengthen preparedness, and apply hard-earned lessons to future disasters. She emphasizes the importance of supporting affected communities, expanding outreach and health resources, and maintaining vigilance against evolving threats. Secretary Clinton calls for renewed cooperation across political divides, stronger investment in science and preparedness, and leadership that brings people together rather than deepening division.

Advocates John Feal, Monica Elvira and Lila Nordstrom discuss their personal experience in how survivors and advocates continue to push for reform 25 years after 9/11. Speakers highlight ongoing health challenges, the need for medical research and greater recognition of women and youth survivors, and the importance of grassroots advocacy. Their personal stories illustrate the impact of delayed recognition of the needs of the community, while emphasizing the importance of documenting history, educating younger generations, and applying lessons from 9/11 to future disasters.

Beth Hillman, President and CEO of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is joined by Curator Alexandra Drakakis and Museum Visionary John Paluska to discuss how the Museum preserves memory while connecting the events of 9/11 to educate future generations. The conversation focuses on the role of each of the panelists while describing the special exhibit, In Their Honor: 25 Years of 9/11 – Inspired Service. They discuss two examples in the exhibit – highlighting John’s lifetime of service and VOICES 25--year legacy of advocacy and support for the 9/11 Community.

Joe Cavalcante of the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board provides an update on World Trade Center claims, benefits and eligibility 25 years after 9/11. He reviews data on victims, responders and volunteers, including more than 19,000 claims and 52,000 people who documented their presence through the WTC-12 process. He highlights ongoing public education, outreach and partnerships that help the 9/11 Community navigate workers’ compensation and related federal programs.

Attorneys Robert Haefele, Duke Maloney, and John Eubanks are joined by 9/11 family member Terry Strada to provide updates on the ongoing 9/11 litigation, including claims against Saudi Arabia, charity organizations and Sudan. Attorneys discuss the upcoming Second Circuit appeal, the growing public record of evidence, and efforts to increase transparency and access to documents. They also examine the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund, including funding challenges, pending legislation and potential future distributions. The panel emphasizes the importance of persistence, accountability and seeking answers for 9/11 families and survivors.