CHC Opens Veterans Resource Center

Publish Date: Aug. 25, 2017

On Friday, August 18, Crafton Hills College celebrated the grand opening of a new veterans resource center dedicated to helping service members, veterans and military families fulfill their dream of earning a college education. California Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Vito Imbasciani delivered the keynote address.

In attendance were students, regional elected officials, business leaders, members of the Crafton Hills College Foundation and Yucaipa Chamber of Commerce, and philanthropic supporters representing Bank of America, Ashley Furniture and Majestic Real Estate.

“I acknowledge the unflagging commitment of the faculty and administrators at Crafton [Hills] College who were determined to see this veteran resource center come to fruition,” said Imbasciani. “In some ways, you take on a bit of the role played by platoon leaders and first sergeants in the military … mentoring, leading and supporting soldiers to be the best they can be.”

The veterans resource center at Crafton Hills College is the second for the San Bernardino Community College District. The first center opened in 2012 at San Bernardino Valley College.

Veterans bring rich experiences and perspectives to our learning community, said Crafton Hills College President Wei Zhou. “We are proud to help enhance their future by providing them with a quality education that will serve as a bridge between their military experience and career aspirations.”

The new space at Crafton Hills College will assist students with financial aid matters, including the GI Bill®, counseling, academic support and military benefits. The center will also offer veterans and their families camaraderie and a welcoming environment to adjust to civilian life.

“During our country’s history it has been proven time and time again that veterans are always a good investment,” said Crafton Hills College veterans coordinator Carla Thornton. “Veterans’ education benefits have been credited with creating the American middle class, and these benefits have transformed, not only our society and economy, but veterans’ lives as well.”

Thornton served in active duty in the U.S. Air Force from 1997 to 2008 and was appointed in 2016 by Governor Jerry Brown to sit on the California Veterans Board, which consists of seven members who work to ensure and enhance the rights and benefits of California Veterans and their dependents.

Students may visit the Crafton Hills College veterans resource center from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. For more information call 909-389-3396, email veteransservices@craftonhills.edu or visit www.craftonhills.edu