VANCOUVER, Wash.–Washington State University Vancouver will be recognized as a veteran-friendly campus and welcomed as a new partner with the Washington State Department of Veteran Affairs at a ceremony at 1 p.m. Nov. 30, in the Firstenburg Student Commons. The event is free and open to the public.
To formally establish the partnership, a Memo of Understanding will be signed by Mike Gregoire, husband to Gov. Chris Gregoire and friend to veterans; John Lee, director of the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs; and Hal Dengerink, chancellor, WSU Vancouver.
WSU Vancouver helps veterans succeed in higher education by increasing awareness of veteran's programs on and off campus, implementing policies that foster social support and promoting a welcoming environment that meaningfully acknowledges the contributions of veterans.
In addition, the partnership ensures that WSU Vancouver student veterans are offered access to the Washington State Department of Veteran Affairs for a review of their individual needs, potential benefits and assistance in obtaining benefits and care.
Christian Latham, president of the WSU Vancouver Veteran’s Education Interest Group, is hopeful that the new partnership between the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs and WSU Vancouver will create a greater understanding about the unique position of veterans on campus.
"Veterans are coming out of the service and coming into education in record numbers. Compared to the average student, they are less likely to be involved on campus socially and academically and more likely to be juggling family, jobs and school. It's important that this partnership raises awareness about the needs of veterans," said Latham.
WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Avenue east of the 134th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205. Parking is available at parking meters or in the Blue Daily Pay lot for $3.
# # #
CONTACT:
Brenda Alling, Office of Marketing and Communications, 360-546-9601, brenda_alling@wsu.edu