College celebrates and recognizes military veterans

Update | Thursday, November 14, 2024

Above, retired Maj. Gen. Deborah Ashenhurst addresses attendees at the Veterans Day Commemoration Luncheon in Michell Hall on Nov. 13. President Harrison also provided remarks during the event.

Columbus State’s Military & Veterans Affairs Department hosted Deborah Ashenhurst as the featured speaker for its annual Veterans Luncheon last week. Ashenhurst is the director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services. She retired from the U.S. Army and National Guard in 2015 after more than 37 years of service.  More than 500 Columbus State students receive military benefits annually. 

Veteran Binta Conteh is a current student who says the college has a strong veteran community. “I chose Columbus State for its affordable tuition rates, which have been particularly beneficial when combined with GI Bill benefits,” said Conteh. “It also has a range of programs that offer fast employment, which is helpful to veterans who are looking to enter the workforce quickly.”

Veteran Carson Rowland agrees. "I think Columbus State is ideal for veterans because the smaller class sizes enable students to easily engage with their professors and peers,” said Rowland. “The military is a tight-knit group, and transitioning back to civilian life can be a lonely experience for many veterans. Coming to Columbus State has allowed me to find a new community of people who are all working together to achieve a similar mission."

Columbus State is among the schools designated as a Collegiate Purple Star institution. The Purple Star Award recognizes schools showing a significant commitment to students and families connected to our nation’s military.

Criteria for being chosen as a Purple Star college or university include having a dedicated military/veteran point of contact or an on-campus office; establishing priority registration for veterans and service members; surveying student veterans and servicemembers – along with spouses and dependents – about needs and challenges; and allowing for the establishment of student-led groups and organizations for veterans and service members.

 

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