Katrina Keefer vividly recalls the life-altering day of September 11, 2001, which she experienced just blocks away from the World Trade Center. The attacks that day had a profound emotional impact on Americans, resulting in nearly 3,000 casualties in New York City, Washington D.C., and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The memories of that tragic day remain indelibly etched in the minds of those who were alive to witness it.
On that fateful morning, Keefer, now the CEO of DCH Health System, was startled by a loud explosion that echoed throughout her Manhattan apartment. From the roof of her building, she observed the chaos as America faced an unthinkable attack. She recalled, “I was in New York City during the best of times and the worst of times.” As the second plane struck the World Trade Center, Keefer’s perspective shifted dramatically, imprinting the horrors of that day in her memory forever.
Living just three blocks from the site, Keefer initially thought the first plane’s impact was an accident. “I looked out my window and I saw that traffic was still moving,” she said, recounting how her roommate alerted her to the unfolding disaster. Rushing to the roof, she witnessed the incomprehensible sight of individuals jumping from the burning building.
The realization that these people were making life-or-death decisions was overwhelming for Keefer. “To know this was their choice was very hard,” she reflected. As she was still processing the chaos, she saw the second plane crash into the second tower and began to understand the true nature of the attacks.
The situation escalated, and tenants were ordered to evacuate. In a rush, Keefer packed her essentials, including her Bible and a few personal items, all while ensuring she had cash. “I knew if I had cash, clean underwear, and my Bible, I was set,” she recalled.
Keefer’s past experiences in missions helped her remain grounded that day. She prepared for uncertainty but was sure to pack a pair of socks, anticipating that her feet would get cold. As the first tower imploded, the streets quickly filled with smoke and debris. “I couldn’t see what was imploding; I could only see the smoke billowing in the street,” she described.
The aftermath of 9/11 profoundly shaped Keefer’s leadership style, offering her invaluable lessons during an extraordinarily challenging time. “In my life, I’ve had a lot of opportunities to be in so many unique situations, and I’ve learned from them all,” she said.