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 began with the pledge of allegiance and a Toast to the Flag led by Christopher AC Wiley, PhD, U.S. Army retired. The university’s Wind Ensemble, directed by Isaac Brinberg, DMA, performed patriotic music including “Comrades of the Legion,” recognizing each branch of the military.
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 and chief business officer as well as a U.S. Army veteran herself, highlighted that Augusta University has been recognized as a military-friendly institution since 2016. She noted that more than 2,000 students at AU are veterans enrolled in 117 different academic programs across campus.
“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 said.
Turner also pointed out that 25% of these veteran students are pursuing graduate or professional degrees.
A pinning ceremony was held during which veterans received pins as tokens of appreciation from Augusta University. As participants pinned them on their clothing, Turner addressed them: “Thank you for your service, your commitment and all you bring to our university community.”
