A campus-wide convocation entitled “Our American Tragedy” will be held at 9 a.m. today, two days after thousands of lives were lost in terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.

The convocation, which will be held in the University Union Ballroom, is open to all faculty, staff and students.

“Classes will not be canceled, but faculty members are encouraged to attend with their classes,” stated a memo from President Donald Gerth’s office. “Students choosing to attend should not be penalized for attending if their classes are not dismissed.”

Gerth will open the convocation, and other speakers will include: Shirley Uplinger, vice president for Student Affairs; Bob Buckley, Faculty Senate Chair; and Artemio Pimentel, Associated Sudents, Inc. president.

Crisis counselors will be available to talk with students, said Ann Reed of Public Affairs.

“There will also be tables set up where people can share their feelings with the families of those involved,” Reed said.