Veterans graduation celebration salutes student excellence
By Isabella Hollingsworth-Sons, Staff Writer
In celebration of student excellence in the classroom and in the military, Governors State University (GovState) students were recently honored at a Veterans Graduation Celebration, where students picked up their cords and stoles.
The intimiate gathering brought together graduating veterans, military-connected students, and staff from the Veterans Resource Center to recognize a unique transition from military service to higher education.
“Congratulations to everyone. This is a milestone,” said Jonathan Cooper, Army and Marine Corps veteran, president of the Student Veterans Association, 2025 Lincoln Laureate, and the campus SALUTE chapter. “You’re coming from the battlefield to the classroom. Sometimes it feels like you’re stepping on landmines. But the thing is, we all made it.”
SALUTE (service, academics, leadership, unity, tribute, and excellence) is the first national honors society that recognizes student veterans and active military in two-year and four-year higher education institutions.
During the event, graduates from multiple academic programs and military branches, including the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, were acknowledged for completing their degrees while balancing the challenges of military life and the transition to college.
Staff from the Veterans Resource Center also encouraged graduates to remain involved with the campus veteran community as alumni, highlighting opportunities to continue participating in student veteran activities and mentorship.
The ceremony concluded with the swearing-in of new members of the SALUTE honor society, recognizing student veterans who have demonstrated strong academic achievement and leadership during their time at Governors State.
