Old Dominion University recognized graduating military students at its Graduation Cord Social on April 17 at Webb University Center.
A total of 47 students and two faculty/staff members were honored at the event, which celebrates graduating service members, veterans, reservists, ROTC cadets and National Guard members. They received red, white and blue cords they will wear at ODU’s 138th Commencement Exercises, which are scheduled for May 5 and 6 at Chartway Arena and S.B. Ballard Stadium, respectively.
The event was organized by the ODU’s Military Connection Center and Student Veterans of America chapter.
“I would be remiss if I did not take the opportunity to acknowledge the men and women who not only represent this campus, but have also represented this nation,” said ODU President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. “This evening, we are coming together to provide what is truly a fitting tribute for your academic accomplishments, and they are significant. I’m confident that your ODU degree, as well as your military service, have you well prepared for the future, not only to serve Hampton Roads, but to serve this great country.”
The event underscored the importance of the armed services to ODU, where 25% of the student body is affiliated with the military.
To help military Monarchs transition and succeed, ODU offers:
- The Military Connection Center, providing comprehensive support to assist military-connected students with transitioning to academic life, including securing academic tutoring and navigating financial aid.
- A Military to ODU Transition Program that gives new students information about available resources.
- A Veterans Administration work-study program and a career center to help graduates in their job search.
- Peer Advisors for Veteran Education (PAVE), a support program connecting incoming student veterans with trained Peer Advisors who can help them navigate college life, address challenges and provide ongoing support.
- VetSuccess on Campus, a partnership between the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and ODU to provide a counselor to help students navigate VA benefits, career counseling and more.
The University has earned numerous national accolades for its commitment to this community. Most recently, ODU earned a Gold ranking as a Military Friendly® School for 2023-2024 from militaryfriendly.com.
“What an awesome day this is,” said Robert Clark, ODU’s director of military activities. “As you head out and start your successful careers, I hope you take with you all of the good things you have learned both in the military and here on campus. You’ve experienced things that many people can never imagine. Through your service to our country and your education, you all have learned things that will certainly make you a valuable member of any team, and our nation relies heavily on people who know what it means to work hard, to sacrifice and take pride in being part of something bigger.”
Here is a list of the people who earned cords in the spring semester:
Rudolfo Agustin, Bettina Atubire, London Britt, Paul Cartwright, Zachary Chandler, Brandon Clarida, Kya Douglas, Jessica Dowell, Martin Ensinger, Alexis Fletcher, Melissa Freeman, Kendra Garrett, James Gomez, Amber Hanson, Lela Hernandez, Thomas Horton, Brittany Houston, Brendan Isaacson, Elizabeth Kiefer, Logan Kooy, Darby Lehman, Briana Leinart, Angela Luettel, Thalia Lugo, Katherine Marco, Jose Luis Martinez, Meghan McCall, Hannah Miller, Carlos Morla, Chelsea Mortimer, Brandon Moss, Keke Moya Prera, Amanda Pugh, Jake Reid, Dustin Roberts, Stephanie Schrantz, Albert Schultz, Nick Shirley, Shannon Smith, Steve Smith, Neil Smith, Aubrey Stalcup, Rey Talisayon, Sarah Thompson, Fredrick Towler, Ashley Velazquez, Matt Weaver, John White and Desmine Winn.
Joseph Hickey, president of ODU’s Student Veterans of America chapter, told the soon-to-be graduates they would always have the support of the veteran network and community and to think about how they can continue serving.
“Go out there, make a difference in this world and more importantly, have fun doing it,” he said.