UTA’s commitment to veterans
The University of Texas at Arlington Military and Veterans Services will host two events to show appreciation of the military in recognition of Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
• The 2021 Faculty & Staff Military Service Appreciation Breakfast will be 8:30 to 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 12, at Brazos Park, which is just south of the University Center. Any faculty or staff members who served in the military are welcome to attend.
• The Military & Veteran Service Showcase will be held 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 19, in the University Center’s Palo Duro Lounge. This event is open to anyone interested in learning more about the programs and services at UTA committed to serving our military community.
James Kumm, executive director of UTA’s Military and Veterans Services, said the two annual events illustrate the University’s commitment to veterans, who constitute a large contingent on campus.
“This is just something to tell veterans that we value them and what they’ve done for this country and this University,” Kumm said. “The University’s goal is to help every veteran and veteran family member who expresses interest in UTA. It is our privilege and our honor to serve them.”
Of UTA’s more than 4,800 military-connected students, just over 2,000 are veterans, on active duty or members of the National Guard or Reserve. Nearly 2,800 students are spouses or children of current or former military members.
For the second year in a row, The University of Texas at Arlington is the nation’s top four-year institution for veterans and their families, according to Military Times.
Kumm said that UT Arlington wants to be the university of choice for veterans and their families. Military and Veterans Services does that because it’s a one-stop shop for everything veterans need to be successful.
“When veterans walk into our office, we want to be able to help with anything they need,” Kumm said. “Whether it’s the Veterans Upward Bound program, Multicultural Affairs, Transition Programs or the Lockheed Martin Career Development Center, you have to determine which program is right for which veteran student. Setting them on the right path can yield fruitful results for their futures.”
Kirstin Borg, a UT Arlington student veteran who served in the U.S. Army, said Military and Veterans Services has helped in her academic journey.
“The two events illustrate what kind of emphasis UT Arlington places on its veterans,” Borg said. “The University isn’t only thanking its students and their families, but also their faculty and staff members who have served our country.”