On this day, our blog goes live. I feel it is appropriate that it should be today. On this Veterans Day, I sit reflecting on previous years, and feeling thankful for what we have.

I am thankful I work at an institution that supports its military-connected students from the top down. The backing coming from the President’s office and extending down to administration, faculty and staff towards the success of this population is inspiring and encouraging.

I am thankful that the effort to create a Veterans Resource Center was started by student veterans. A group of these students, along with support from faculty and staff, went to the President of the University and asked for consideration. Just a few short months later, Veterans Services and the Veterans Resource Center were created and we celebrate their 3^rd year anniversaries this week.

I am thankful that the efforts of this university towards supporting its military-connected students is recognized on a national scale. The hard work and dedication of those who work here is something remarkable and uplifting to behold. I have the privilege of working with individuals who work tirelessly for the care and success of those in their charge.

I am thankful for those who support us as benefactors. We benefit from having individuals who care deeply for the success of students and show this support to us consistently and caringly. We are ever increasing services and opportunities for our veterans and we would not be able to do these things without their support.

Most of all I am thankful for those military and veteran students and their families who attend this university. These individuals serve and have served this country and now entrust us for help in their education and success. They deserve any help we are able to afford. It is our responsibility to aid them in the best way we can. I am thankful for these students and I am thankful for colleagues and a university that will do just that.

Thank you.