By Julianna Klein
A mobile exhibit that has visited 43 states and two Canadian provinces. Over 1,700
mortgage-free homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders, and
Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children. Housing assistance
and support services for homeless veterans.
This is the impact that Jackie Eaton ’07 helps support as community liaison for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a nonprofit created in memory of Stephen Stiller, a New York City firefighter who gave his life on 9/11 to save others.
Since its founding in December 2001 by Siller’s family, the foundation has raised over $1 billion. The nonprofit also has a scholarship program and a 9/11 Institute that ensures current and future generations never forget the events of that day.
“I’m inspired by Stephen’s family who have stayed true to the guiding principle, ‘While we have time, let us do good,’” Eaton says.
A Multitasking Job
Eaton’s work with the mobile exhibit requires her to wear many hats — booking agent,
tour manager, and social media coordinator, to name a few. The custom museum features
retired NYC firefighters who take the audience through the events of 9/11, while weaving
in personal narratives and adding context to the exhibit’s artifacts.
“They provide the vital link between solemn history and uplifting resilience,” Eaton says. “While they detail the chronology of events and the towers' legacy, it is their authentic New York City spirit that reveals the soul of the history."
The personal narratives impact Eaton most. “Hearing all the stories of selflessness truly shines a light on the strength of the human spirit,” she says.
Making Her Impact
"Last year, we visited more places and educated more people than ever before in a single year."
Eaton earned her Empire State University degree while working full time and raising two children. Her focus on leadership, organizational structure, public health, and emergency management prepared her well for her current role, which she assumed in 2022.
In the years since, the impact of the mobile exhibit has grown. “Last year, we visited more places and educated more people than ever before in a single year,” she says.
In cities large and small, long lines of people drive hours to see the exhibit, with regional fire, police, and emergency agencies ready to escort it. People of all ages, even those not alive during 9/11, come to learn about the history.
“The foundation remains steadfastly committed to highlighting the profound goodness that surfaced during that darkest of times — the way ordinary citizens united in service, and our nation found strength in solidarity,” Eaton says. “Even amidst the debris, the human spirit's brilliance was evident, showing us that hope can flourish in the wake of tragedy.”