Veterans of Crafton’s Class of 2024 recognized at special ceremony

Publish Date: May 15, 2024

Graduating Roadrunners who served our nation in its military were individually recognized at a special ceremony hosted by Crafton Hills College’s Veterans Resource Center on May 15.

Thirteen veteran students received special regalia to celebrate their accomplishment, from specialty chords and stoles to an all-new challenge coin designed to pay homage to the sacrifices made during their time of service.

“We have a small veteran population, but to have this many graduate is so amazing,” said Steve Rush, a veterans services coordinator. “A lot of the veterans who showed up today …regularly use the VRC on a day-to-day basis. They were looking forward to this day, and we’re excited we do this for them.”

Crafton’s Veterans Resource Center is located near the quad, the heart of the Yucaipa-based community college’s campus. Open to all veterans and their dependents, the VRC is dedicated to help transition student veterans from military to civilian life within an academic environment.

Services include:

• Academic counseling
• Career exploration and guidance
• On-site psychological and mental health counseling
• Personal and professional development workshops
• Work study opportunities

For many like Damien Madrid, the VRC has become their home away from home as they navigate the world of Crafton and contemplate the future.

“Without the Veterans Resource Center, I wouldn’t have been able to navigate the administrative parts of enrolling, financial aid, and all of that,” said the Marine Corps. veteran. “To have a resource like this and a staff willing to help whenever needed, it’s great, and I hope every school has a VRC like ours.”

Additional event highlights included congratulatory remarks from center staff and Crafton leadership; tours of the space for guests in attendance; and a catered lunch.

To learn more about the center and its resources, head to craftonhills.edu/veterans.