IRSC Celebrates Opening of Veterans Center of Excellence

January 31, 2022 Robert Lane

Less than one year after receiving a $449,966 grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Indian River State College held the Grand Opening for the new Veterans Center of Excellence (VCE) Friday, January 21, on the Pruitt Campus in Port St. Lucie. The event featured remarks from Major General (U.S. Marine Corps, Ret.) James “Hammer” Hartsell, Executive Director, Florida Veterans Affairs; many expressions of patriotism and solidarity with our Veterans; and tours of the facility.

The Veterans Center for Excellence provides IRSC student veterans enhanced wrap-around support for student veterans through additional academic, financial, physical, and social support services. A project director, advising staff, and part-time tutors support these efforts. The site will house the Indian River State College Veterans Center of Excellence Wall of Honor, a permanent recognition of veterans made possible by founding sponsor SouthState Bank.

Veterans Center of Excellence Grand Opening

Photos by Molly Bartels, Staff Photographer