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Thanking our veterans

Veterans Day — which officially takes place on November 11 every year — is recognized as a federal holiday today. Veterans Day is an important opportunity to celebrate and thank all of our military veterans for their courageous service. As we reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of their sacrifices, Nazareth University is proud to support our veteran students in their educational journey and recognize their contributions to our inclusive campus. 

We’re committed to welcoming our veterans home from duty and easing the transition to their next career by providing comprehensive financial, academic, and mental health resources. In addition to offering scholarships, VA work-study opportunities, and credits for military experience, we created the Military and Veterans Suite in Smyth Hall to give military-affiliated students a space to study, relax, and socialize with their classmates. And for our faculty and staff, we implemented Green Zone Training to discuss the challenges and concerns faced by veteran students, so we’re better equipped to meet their needs. 

Our efforts have consistently distinguished Nazareth as one of the nation’s best universities for veterans. U.S. News and World Report recently ranked Naz 23rd among the top-ranked schools in our region that participate in federal initiatives helping veterans and active-duty service members pay for their degrees. The Military Times this week also ranked Naz a 2023 Best for Vets College. And we are among a select group of universities selected as a Military Support College of Distinction. 

We are proud to see the ways our veteran students and alumni are changemakers in the world — like Kevin Kozlowski ‘18, who went from a U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division paratrooper to being an advocate for fellow vets. Faced with his own health struggles due to toxic exposures during his service, he advocated alongside other veterans and lawmakers for passage of the historic PACT Act in 2022, expanding VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances. 

Andrae Evans ‘87, a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel, won election this week as Irondequoit (New York) town supervisor — another veteran Nazareth alum serving his community. 

We look forward to seeing our Nazareth community of military-affiliated students, faculty, staff, and alumni come together tonight for our annual Veterans Day Dinner to show our appreciation and dedication to equity and opportunity. To all service members and their families: You are valued members of our Nazareth community and we thank you for your bravery and sacrifice!

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