The WVU Center for Veteran, Military and Family Programs will host a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for its Veteran and Military Family Support Headquarters Friday (Dec. 7) at the Mountainlair. The Veteran and Military Family Support Headquarters grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 11:30 a.m. in the Mountainlair’s Vandalia Lounge.
The 2,500 square-foot facility will serve as a welcoming space and support center for student veterans, armed forces personnel and dependents of current and former military service members.
The Headquarters will offer a variety of programs and services for veterans and military families focused on ensuring academic success, career development, promoting overall well-being and supporting their transition from military life into college life.
The facility will operate Monday through Friday, from 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. and offer:
- Veterans certification services, success coaching and on-site counseling;
- Dedicated tutoring and study areas; and
- A lounge area with video games, snack/coffee bar and more.
Jerry Wood, director of the WVU Center for Veteran, Military and Family Programs, said, “The opening of the Veteran and Military Family Support Headquarters is the first step in WVU’s renewed commitment to the women and men who have voluntarily and honorably stepped forward to serve their country before themselves. Through their selfless service, they and their families have earned every opportunity to lead successful and meaningful lives.
“As West Virginia’s flagship institution, it is imperative that the University not only set the standard for the state in providing those opportunities, but establish ourselves as a national leader and contributor in veteran and military programs. This new facility, combined with several other initiatives currently underway, will go a long way in ensuring that becomes a reality.”
Ed Olesh, student veteran and graduate research assistant at Davis College, said, “Never in my seven years here as an undergraduate and a graduate student have I ever seen a gesture so dedicated to student veteran success and inclusivity. This is a great time to be a Mountaineer and a veteran on campus.”
Following the ceremony, an open house will take place from noon until 2 p.m. at the Veteran and Military Family Support Headquarters, which is located on the second floor of the Mountainlair. Students, faculty, staff and visitors are welcome to attend the events.
For more information, visit the WVU Center for Veteran, Military and Family Programs website. You also may contact Steve Riffon at 304.293.8825 or Steve.Riffon@mail.wvu.edu.