Augusta University held a Veterans Day ceremony at the Grover C. Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre on November 11, bringing together military families, community members, and leaders to honor veterans’ service.
The event opened with the pledge of allegiance and a Toast to the Flag led by Christopher AC Wiley, PhD, a retired U.S. Army member. The university’s Wind Ensemble, under Isaac Brinberg, DMA, performed patriotic music including “Comrades of the Legion,” during which each military branch was recognized.
Speakers included Don Clark, Augusta-Richmond County commissioner; Lennox Wildman from Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center; and retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Tom Clark of CSRA Alliance for Fort Gordon.
Stefane Raulerson, EdD, director of Military and Veteran Services and organizer of the event, reflected on the history and purpose of Veterans Day: “Today we pay tribute not only to their service, but to their enduring impact on our communities, our institution and our lives. We celebrate their bravery, their resilience and selflessness and the values they contribute to our lives, long after their service,” Raulerson said. “We trust this gathering will be a reminder of the strength of our veterans and proof of the importance of standing together with gratitude.”
Yvonne Turner, Augusta University’s executive vice president for finance and administration as well as chief business officer—and herself a U.S. Army veteran—highlighted that more than 2,000 students at Augusta University are veterans. She noted that since 2016 Augusta University has been recognized as a military-friendly institution. Turner stated: “These students contribute not only to our academic excellence but bring invaluable experiences and perspectives to every corner of campus life. Military-connected students at AU are enrolled in 117 different academic programs, demonstrating the diversity of their interests and the breadth of opportunities available here.”
Turner also shared that about one quarter of these veteran students are pursuing graduate or professional degrees.
A pinning ceremony took place during which veterans received pins upon entering as a symbol of appreciation from Augusta University for their service. As she distributed pins Turner said: “Thank you for your service, your commitment and all you bring to our university community.”
