Augusta Univeristy honors veterans with celebration

Augusta University marked Veterans Day with a moving ceremony at the Grover C. Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre with military families, local and national leaders and members of the community gathering to honor the service of veterans on Tuesday, Nov. 11.

The ceremony began with the pledge of allegiance and a Toast to the Flag by Christopher AC Wiley, PhD, U.S. Army retired. Under the direction of Isaac Brinberg, DMA, AU’s Wind Ensemble played several patriotic tunes, including Comrades of the Legion, in which each branch of the military was recognized.

Guest speakers included Don Clark, Augusta-Richmond County commissioner; Lennox Wildman, assistant director of Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center; and retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Tom Clark, executive director of CSRA Alliance for Fort Gordon.

Stefane Raulerson, EdD, director of Military and Veteran Services, said since its origins in 1919, Veterans Day has evolved in name and form, but its purpose has remained steadfast: to recognize and honor the men and women who have worn the uniform with courage, integrity and unwavering dedication.

“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,” said Raulerson, the event organizer. “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, AU’s executive vice president for finance and administration, chief business officer and a U.S. Army veteran, emphasized the important role of veterans at Augusta University, which has been classified as a military-friendly institution since 2016. Currently, more than 2,000 AU students are veterans of the U.S. military.

“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.

Of those 2,000 students, 25% are pursuing graduate and professional or post-professional degrees, which Turner says shows a remarkable dedication to lifelong learning and leadership. 

Veterans in attendance participated in a pinning ceremony, with Turner at the helm. Veterans were given a pin as they walked into the ceremony as a symbol of gratitude from AU for their selfless service to the United States of America. As they pinned the token to their clothing, Turner said, “Thank you for your service, your commitment and all you bring to our university community.”