Opening of Veterans Resource Center marked with ribbon-cutting
Robert Buchmann (left), president of WCU's Student Veteran Association, and Alison Morrison-Shetlar, interim chancellor, snip the ribbon during a ceremony marking the opening of the new Veterans Resource Center.
The Western Carolina University community came together Monday, Nov. 12, to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new Veterans Resource Center located on campus.
“We are very excited to be able to offer this resource to our students,” said Briana Ford, director of Military Student Services at WCU. “This center offers a quiet space to study, participate in group activities, get career information and connect with fellow veterans adjusting to campus life.”
Acting Provost Carol Burton welcomed WCU students, staff and faculty and community members, while Richard Starnes, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences served as guest speaker. Interim Chancellor Alison Morrison-Shetlar concluded the ceremony by offering her remarks and gratitude to the student veterans, faculty and staff of WCU.
Campus representatives for the ceremony were (from left) Robert Buchmann, president of the Student Veteran Association; Carol Burton, acting provost; Richard Starnes, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Chris Ramseur, SVA past-president; Alison Morrison-Shetlar, interim chancellor; and Briana Ford, director of Military Student Services.
Morrison-Shetlar, along with Burton, Starnes, Student Veteran Association current President Robert Buchmann and past-president Chris Ramseur, then officially opened the center with the cutting of the ribbon.
“The ceremony was great. I was glad to see how many people from not only WCU, but the surrounding community, attended,” said Buchmann. “The center provides a comfortable place for our veterans and their families to go on campus.”
This space also houses the SVA, a participation-based program for student veterans, dependents and supporters to help them transition to campus life by providing group activities, volunteer opportunities and support in and out of the classroom.
For more information about the Veterans Resource Center, the SVA or Military Student Services at WCU, contact Ford at blford@wcu.edu or visit military.wcu.edu.
