U.S. military veterans from alumni, student, employee, and ROTC groups of Boston College will come together for the second annual Veterans Kickoff Event on Oct. 3 in Cadigan Alumni Center, organized by the Ļć½¶Šć Student Veterans Association with the goal of uniting veterans from all parts of the University community.Ā
Established in September of 2017, the Ļć½¶ŠćSVA āaims to assist in the professional development of members, to promote camaraderie, and to raise awareness and support for the military on the Boston College campus.ā
Ā āI believe that the veterans of Boston College, past, present and future, are connected in a special wayā said David Cote, president of the Graduate Student Veterans Association. āOur service to our nation and our association with Boston College set us apart.ā
The Kickoff Event welcomes Ļć½¶Šć veterans and their guests to enjoy appetizers, drinks, and conversation with others who share a military as well as educational background. There is no fee to attend, but donations to help cover the cost of the event are appreciated.
āThe Veterans Kickoff Event is a great venue for veterans and those who work with them to get together, socialize, and form mutually beneficial bonds with one anotherā said Executive Vice President Mike Lochhead, a U.S. Army veteran. Ā āLast yearās inaugural event was a great success due in large part to the leadership of the student, alumni, and employee affinity groups working in close collaboration.Ā My hope is that this yearās event will continue the positive momentum by reaching more members of this important community here at Boston College.ā
Additional events hosted by the Ļć½¶Šć Student Veterans Association this year include a tailgate party during the home football game on Oct. 13 against Louisville and informational talks on topics such as the transition into civilian employment.
In addition, Ļć½¶Šć will host its annual Veterans Mass and Remembrance Ceremony, a campus tradition in recognition of Veterans Day organized by the Boston College Veterans Alumni Network, on November 9.
āChristine Balquist | University Communications
