Tabatha Fields
The Corsair
The smell of barbecue brewing under the student center gazebo filled the air right before noon as the Student Veterans Association hosted a barbecue fundraiser on Pensacola State College’s main campus Oct. 4.
According to the Green and White, PSC faculty and staff news site, “The SVA held the event in hopes to target all veteran students from area schools, active-duty military, and family members.”
The disk jockey and the aroma of barbecue set the atmosphere for a productive afternoon.
Rochelle Dubose, student at PSC said, “The food was good and I enjoyed the fellowship with my friends.”
Tables were assembled under the gazebo and on the lawn with representatives ready to assist participants with any of their questions.
Angie Morris, veteran’s services rep, was on site to help anyone who has served in the military with an honorable discharge.
“We help everyone, the veterans department helps anyone who has served in the military with over 180 days service with anything other than a dishonorable discharge,” said Morris.
The SVA, founded in 2010, is currently seeking new members to continue their efforts of reaching out to veterans.
Timothy Jones, vice president of SVA said, “Our main goal is to achieve the goal of graduating student veterans. We want 100 percent of our student veterans to walk across that stage with their degree.”
According to the Veterans Services brochure, “Workforce Escarosa is fully prepared to assist veterans with their employment and training needs. The veteran applicant is designed to assist in gaining meaningful employment.”
“We are holding this community fair to get the word out to veterans about the benefits veterans have. I spent 10 years trying to find my place after I got out of the military, so if there is anything I can do to help another person I am willing to do that,” said Wesley Chadwick, treasurer of SVA.
Many of the SVA members were very pleased with the success of the barbecue.
A DJ played hits, like Donna Summer’s “Last Dance,” as students enjoyed the barbecue. “I like licking the barbecue off the chicken,” said PSC student Lacey Tillman. “It was really good.”
SVA is accepting members who are looking for an organization to join for a good cause.
Meetings are held Tuesdays, at 12:30 p.m. in building six.
For more information contact Timothy Jones at 850-898-6167.