FSU PC honors American veterans
In celebration of Veteran’s Day, Florida State University Panama City hosted the annual Veteran’s Day Celebration for an audience of JROTC cadets representing high schools all across Bay County. Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps is a program where high school students develop important life skills including leadership and problem-solving.
The attending students wore the military uniforms of their divisions, such as U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. The Rutherford High School JROTC presented the colors, and Cadet Capt. Aneka Walker sang the national anthem. U.S. Army veteran and current FSU PC Psychology major Jordon Ayala led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Dr. Irvin Clark, the associate dean of Student and Strategic Initiatives, was one of the key speakers for the event. Clark served four years in the U.S. Navy before entering college. He also played professional football. He joined FSU PC in 2017. During his speech, Clark included a little bit of his personal backstory and highlighted how serving in the Navy has impacted the man he is today.
“My military experiences define who I am, what I stand for, and what I have become,” Clark said.
High school attendees were notified about scholarship opportunities, including a First Time in College scholarship and the Panama City Promise scholarship. Additionally, students were served lunch and heard from a panel of current FSU PC students who are military dependents or veterans.
“Many of you here today may be giving some thought to what your plans are immediately following high school, and while military service may be in your future, furthering your education would also be a recommended goal,” said Jim Allen, campus registrar and director of Academic Services, speaking to the audience. Allen is also a U.S. Navy veteran.
Those interested in attending FSU PC can learn more about financial aid opportunities at pc.fsu.edu/finances. For more information about upcoming events, follow Student Affairs @fsupcstudentaffairs on Instagram.
View video of the Veterans Day event at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woMgl3tshWw&t=3129s
