In a historic first, San Diego State University's Military & Veterans Program hosted its inaugural Veteran Commencement Ceremony, a unique event held aboard the iconic USS Midway. This special setting, coupled with crucial support from the Troops to Engineers (T2E) initiative, made the ceremony a truly memorable occasion. It not only celebrated the academic achievements of SDSU's military-connected graduates but also highlighted the university's commitment to supporting veteran students from classroom to career.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone: With nearly 500 in attendance and within the T2E program, nine veterans graduating, including one who earned a master's degree, successfully graduated. This group of students, a testament to the success of the T2E program, has upheld its remarkable track record, with each member securing employment upon graduation, continuing T2E's legacy of a 100% employment rate for its graduates.
"The USS Midway was a fitting venue for our first Veteran Commencement Ceremony, symbolizing our military students' resilience and enduring spirit," said [East], Director of SDSU's Military & Veterans Program.
The Troops to Engineers program has been a cornerstone of SDSU's efforts to integrate military-connected students into engineering, providing tailored academic and career support. By fostering connections with industry leaders and offering hands-on experiences, T2E ensures that students excel academically and are career-ready upon graduation.
"This commencement is not just a celebration of academic achievement but also of the successful transition our students are making into impactful careers," added [Imes]. "We are proud to see another cohort of veteran engineers ready to contribute their skills and leadership in the civilian world."
As SDSU looks forward to the future, the success of this inaugural ceremony on the USS Midway sets a high bar for celebrating the unique contributions and achievements of its veteran students, reinforcing the university's role as a leader in military education.
