Groundbreaking for Veterans Center

By Anne Hall

Government officials, supporters of CSUSM and many Veterans attended the groundbreaking  ceremony of the Veterans Center’s new “Smart House” to extend their appreciation and support.

Many look forward to this generous contribution being made to the campus, as well as what this new building is going to offer. The Smart House will provide greater opportunities for students, plans for development including features that concentrate on resources and functionality. The building will have an office space, conference room, a kitchen, a lounge and event space. The groundbreaking was held on Nov. 8, and the new facility will be open for occupancy in Fall 2014.

Speaking on behalf of the student veteran community, Kinesiology major and Navy veteran Gregg Snowden noted that without a veteran friendly organization like the one at CSUSM, we would have a more difficult time accomplishing our goals. The Veterans Center does so much to help the one out of 10 students who are active duty, veterans and dependents.

“Cal State being such a friendly veterans organization was the reason I am able to graduate in December and move through my education program so quickly.  The staff of the Veterans Center really provides a great service that does not get published,” Snowden said.

The facility was donated by the Stevens Institute of Technology from Hoboken, New Jersey. President Haynes voiced her enthusiasm in receiving this honored gift and stated how much she looks forward to the newfound relationship between the Cougars and Stevens Institute.