TEXARKANA, Texas -- Texas A&M University-Texarkana's Veterans Service Center is being recognized for its education work for those who have served.
The center is receiving the 2023 Texas Veterans Commission's Education Excellence Recognition Award for the second year in a row. Last year, the center received the Silver Award, but this year it outdid itself and has been given the Gold Award.
The award is given to schools that provide support and resources to student veterans and veteran-connected students. TAMU-T's Veterans Service Center has a large space for students to gather, hold events and use computers for classwork. There is also a private area for studying or group projects, and light snacks are provided.
The center is managed by 30-year Air Force veteran Robert Hernandez, who said the center is there to help veterans graduate.
"We are very fortunate to have such a wonderful space to serve our veterans and military-associated students," Hernandez said. "We want to help them throughout their entire experience at the university -- from helping students navigate the admissions process to understanding the benefits they may qualify for to helping connect them with tutors and other academic support when needed."
The Veterans Service Center also is a place for students to relax. Wes Hervey, a TAMU-T freshman and seven-year Navy veteran, said it helps to have a place to connect with others who have a military background.
"Texas A&M University-Texarkana takes a great deal of pride in serving our veterans in pursuit of their education," President Dr. Ross Alexander said. "I commend Mr. Hernandez and his team for the achievement of this prestigious honor."
For information on the Veterans Services Center, contact Hernandez at 903-223-3167 or [email protected].