On Veterans Day, a series of speakers shared personal reflections about how camaraderie shapes both military and academic life as part of Cornell’s celebration of its military and veteran community, held in the Biotechnology Building on Nov. 11.

Nearly 100 students, employees and members of Cornell’s community gathered to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of veterans and discuss the bonds that unite those who serve.

Credit: Jason Koski/Cornell University

“The student veteran community here at Cornell are scholars, nonprofit leaders, passionate advocates and leaders in research, projects and clubs,” said Noah Courtney ’24, recounting his time in the U.S. Coast Guard and how it influenced his undergraduate experience at Cornell. “While we accomplish so much as individuals, our community forms the bedrock of that success. The culture we create is what defines us as students, as people and as a strong community of student veterans. Together, we can build a spirit of unity in every community we find ourselves in, here and after our time at Cornell. With camaraderie, I’m confident that we’ll always find our sea legs and won’t have to face these storms alone.”

Other guest speakers included U.S. Marine Corps midshipman Connor Eaton ’25; Amber Alpízar, U.S. Army veteran and director of human resources in Cornell Engineering; and honored speaker Lt. Gen. Benjamin Watson ’91, a Big Red Navy ROTC alumnus who shared how Cornell played a key role in his path to the U.S. Marine Corps.

“I encourage leaders, both in academia and the military, to share your stories and highlight the value of military service – its strength, purpose and the character it fosters,” Watson said. “Your contributions enrich campus life, strengthen the community and remind us of what it means to be a person of character, to serve a higher purpose and to make a difference. Thank you to the Cornell community for fostering an environment where camaraderie and connection thrive, and the community of military service members is welcome.”

Credit: Jason Koski/Cornell University

The Veterans Colleague Network Group (VCNG) presented its annual Continuation of Service Award to Sarah Kreps, the John L. Wetherill Professor in the Department of Government (College of Arts and Sciences, Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy), for her significant contributions to student veterans at Cornell. Established in 2022, this award honors veterans who demonstrate exceptional leadership and service within the Cornell community, beyond their military careers.

As an Air Force veteran, Kreps has remained committed to veteran inclusion across campus, mentoring Army officers in doctoral programs, advising the Cornell Law Veterans Association and supporting undergraduates on the GI Bill through their transition to academic life. She was recognized for her dedication to advocating for veterans and enhancing the experiences of veteran students.

“Winning this award feels like a nod to the collective efforts of Cornell’s veteran community in creating spaces where veterans are encouraged and supported to thrive academically and personally,” Kreps said. “Military life leaves a lasting mark, and helping other veterans find their footing in an academic setting is just one way for me to give back to a community that has shaped me. Veterans often face the challenge of redefining themselves after service, and it’s an honor to support these high-integrity, hardworking, service-above-self individuals who make Cornell a better place.” 

Throughout November, Cornell’s veteran and military community will continue to honor veterans with a series of events and military appreciation athletic games. For more information, visit veterans.cornell.edu.

Grace DePaull is communications assistant in the Department of Inclusion and Belonging in the Division of Human Resources.