WTCA Remembers 9/11

Dear WTCA Members,

Today marks the 25th anniversary — a quarter century — since the tragic events of September 11, 2001.We pause to remember the lives lost, honor the courage and sacrifice of those who responded, and stand with the families and communities whose lives were forever changed. May we continue to remember, reflect, and never forget.

Let us also take a moment to reflect on our Association's history and resilience, and our vision for the future. 

The original World Trade Center buildings (Twin Towers) served as the iconic symbol of the WTCA since our Association was founded in 1969, and was home to our Headquarters office where the founding team worked. Despite the pain and terror felt in the aftermath of the tragedy, the name "World Trade Center" transcended, and over time, it became well known around the world as a symbol of resilience. In the months following the attacks, we showed our strength as a united community, leaning on our global mission, legacy and solidarity. Our Association emerged from the tragedy stronger because of our shared values and vision of the world. And we were able to move forward by establishing ourselves as a trusted global network — one where you can find friends around the world who you know and who are available for you when needed. To this day, it truly is one of the greatest attributes that the Association provides, and is one of the reasons why people join and stay in the network as seasons change .

Now, WTCA is entering a new chapter. The relocation of our Headquarters office into One World Trade Center comes 25 years after the Association last maintained offices on the 77th floor of the original World Trade Center’s North Tower. While the return carries historical significance and cements the connection once again with the World Trade Center brand, the new Headquarters office is intended to serve a distinctly forward-looking role — providing WTCA with a permanent global base for an organization whose reach now extends across nearly 100 countries and territories. From the new office, WTCA will continue advancing its mission to help its Members create connections across markets and facilitate opportunities for international trade and investment while creating a global gathering point for its Members, partners and business leaders. One such event will be the resumption of WTCA's annual in-person Member Forum in the Fall of 2027, marking the WTCA’s first in-person member gathering in New York City since 2024 and the first to be held within One World Trade Center.

September 11 will forever be engrained in the history of our Association, and now, with our official homecoming into One World Trade Center, we will continue to move forward with our mission of "Connecting Businesses, Globally." and showcase New York City's importance at the center of global commerce and trade. 

On behalf of the entire Board of Directors, our New York staff and regional teams, we thank you, our Members, for your continued commitment and trust in our united, global network.

Best,

John E. Drew

Chair, WTCA Board of Directors