Military veterans at Tennessee’s community and technical colleges were recently honored and awarded the inaugural Chancellor’s Commendation for Military Veterans. Jack Chislett, a Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) student in the Collision Repair Technology program, was selected as Chattanooga State’s recipient.

“Mr. Chislett exemplifies all of the characteristics we value, such as honor, courage, commitment, integrity, duty, respect, discipline, and sacrifice,” stated Dr. Jim Barrott, executive vice president of TCAT. “Chislett, a United States Coast Guard veteran with 14+ years of service, shows exemplary commitment to his country and his education.” He also recently served as a student representative in the school's 10-year accreditation review with SACSCOC. “Jack is courteous and respectful of his fellow students, faculty, and staff,” added Dr. Barrott.

A decorated veteran, Mr. Chislett’s achievements include Outstanding Air Crewman Perchard Award, Transportation 911 Ribbon for Extraordinary Service, Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation Awards, Commanders Intent Award – Superior Performance, Coast Guard Unit Commendation Award, Letters of Commendation, Achievement Medals, Coast Guard Good Conduct Medals, and a Global War Terror Service Medal, among others.

The Tennessee Board of Regents and Chancellor Flora W. Tydings established the new commendation as a system-level award to honor the service, bravery and sacrifices of military veterans in the campus communities. It supplements the Veterans Day ceremonies, observances and recognitions that the colleges traditionally conduct.

Dr. Rebecca Ashford, Chattanooga State president, presented the award to Chislett, a specially designed challenge coin, to mark the celebration.

Chattanooga State is one of nine community colleges certified with a VETS Campus Designation. An institution receiving VETS Campus certification not only prioritizes outreach to veterans, but successfully delivers the services necessary to create a supportive environment where student veterans can prosper while pursuing their education.

For more information about Chattanooga State’s program for veterans, call (423) 697-4483 or visit chattanoogastate.edu/student-support/outreach-programs/veterans-affairs. To explore TCAT programs, visit chattanoogastate.edu/tcat.