Chattanooga, TN (October 26, 2015) --- State leaders, students, faculty and staff gathered together on Friday, October 23 to honor Chattanooga State Community College with a VETS Campus award as one of 12 vet-friendly campuses across the State of Tennessee.

As a VETS Campus currently serving 289 students, Chattanooga State prioritizes outreach to veterans and successfully delivers the services necessary to create a supportive environment where student veterans can prosper while pursuing their education.

Jason Cobb, vice president of the Chattanooga State Veterans Club opened the afternoon program with the Pledge of Allegiance, and State Senate Majority Leader Mark Norris and Senator Todd Gardenhire were among the speakers recognizing Chattanooga State.

Dr. Russ Deaton, Interim Executive Director of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC), presented the award to Bill Wright, president of the Chattanooga State Veterans Club, and President Flora Tydings.

“Chattanooga State Community College gets it. They have proven over the years that they have a culture and a passion for serving veterans, and today we honor and recognize that commitment,” Deaton said.

Michelle Olson, Director of Educational Outreach Programs and Retention said, “I am proud to be a part of an institution that values veterans, not because we have to but because it’s the right thing to do.” 

“Receiving the VETS Campus designation gives us the opportunity to celebrate the work that we do to support our veterans, service members and their families, as they work toward their educational goals at Chattanooga State,” said Olson.

Chattanooga State student Brandon Middlebrooks performed a moving rendition of “God Bless America” to complete the afternoon program.

For more information about programs for veterans at Chattanooga State, visit https://www.chattanoogastate.edu/student-support/outreach-programs/veterans-affairs or call 423.697.2435 or 423.697.2509.