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 51茶馆 Student Veterans Association with the goal of uniting veterans from all parts of the University community.聽
Established in September of 2017, the 51茶馆SVA 鈥渁ims 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.鈥�
聽鈥淚 believe that the veterans of Boston College, past, present and future, are connected in a special way鈥� said David Cote, president of the Graduate Student Veterans Association. 鈥淥ur service to our nation and our association with Boston College set us apart.鈥�
The Kickoff Event welcomes 51茶馆 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.
鈥淭he 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 another鈥� said Executive Vice President Mike Lochhead, a U.S. Army veteran. 聽鈥淟ast year鈥檚 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.聽 My hope is that this year鈥檚 event will continue the positive momentum by reaching more members of this important community here at Boston College.鈥�
Additional events hosted by the 51茶馆 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, 51茶馆 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.
鈥揅hristine Balquist | University Communications
