A frequent visitor to the 9/11 Memorial, Jack Oehm ’80 finds purpose in the enduring strength of the human spirit. 

“It’s a reminder of how fragile life is and how important it is to make every moment count.”

A retired firefighter who witnessed the towers crumble in 2001, Jack dedicated himself to protecting the lives of first responders and supporting the families of fallen heroes.

Service rooted in Marist values

Jack’s Marist story began as a student-athlete with a passion for track and field, where he discovered the power of community and teamwork. 

• “The friendships I made, the lessons I learned, and the support of my teammates taught me the importance of lifting others up,” he said. “Marist wasn’t just about academics; it was about preparing us to lead lives of purpose.” 
• Courage in action: Drawn to the fire department after graduating with his degree in accounting, Jack saw firefighting as a way to live out the compassion and resilience instilled in him at Marist. Whether responding to emergencies or supporting families during crises, he embodies Marist’s mission to serve others. 

A legacy of giving back

Jack has been a steadfast supporter of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which honors the legacy of first responders lost on September 11. Through organizing events and fundraising, Jack helps provide mortgage-free smart homes to the families of fallen heroes.

Founded in memory of firefighter Stephen Siller, who lost his life on September 11, 2001, the organization also preserves the legacy of 9/11 heroes through events like the annual Tunnel to Towers Run & Walk and extends disaster relief to communities in need. Its mission is to ensure that the bravery and sacrifices of these individuals are never forgotten. 

• In his own words: “Tunnel to Towers reminds us that even in the face of unimaginable tragedy, we have the power to come together and support one another,” Jack said.

  LISTEN: Hear Jack Oehm talk about how firefighters from as far as Tennessee came to assist in the rescue efforts during 9/11.

 

"They got up to my location. They gave me a big salute and said, 'Chief, we're here to help you. What can we do for you?' I just got the goosebumps now."

 

Inspiring the next generation

A dedicated public speaker, Jack frequently speaks to students and various groups, encouraging them to make a difference in their own ways and in their own communities. 

• Words of wisdom: “You don’t have to be a firefighter or join a big organization to make a difference. Small acts of kindness can ripple into big changes,” he tells them. 

Reflecting on resilience

Jack’s frequent visits to the 9/11 Memorial are a deeply personal way to honor the lives lost and share the lessons of courage and unity. “Being there is humbling,” he said. “It’s a reminder to live with purpose and to make every moment count.”
 

Inspired by Marist, dedicated to others

Jack credits Marist with inspiring his lifelong commitment to service.

“Marist taught me that success isn’t just about what you achieve; it’s about how you use your talents to lift others up,” he said.

A powerful example of the Marist spirit in action, Jack’s story proves that being “Inspired to Do More” is more than a tagline—for him, it’s a way of life.

Inspired to do More

In our "Inspired to Do More" series students, faculty, staff, and alumni share their unique Marist journeys. In Marist's "and, not or" spirit, these members of our community have embraced diverse opportunities, excelling in academics, activities, leadership, and service. Each story highlights how Marist's values inspire them to pursue excellence, connect with others, and make a meaningful impact.