Honoring our vets

Trustees from the South Orange County Community College District and other college representatives prepare to start the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the opening of the new Veterans Services Center at Irvine Valley College. (Shirley Smith)

For a third consecutive year, Irvine Valley College accepted an honorary recognition as a Military Friendly School. A large delegation of local, state and regional elected officials were among the many present.

One of the goals was to hire Mark Minkler for IVC as the new veterans’ counselor in addition to opening up the center on campus. In previous years, veterans had to drive to Long Beach to receive such services.

“Transitioning can be a challenge and receiving services are important in the process,” Saddleback College officer of outreach Ransom Morris said. “I’m glad that we are getting more study space on both campuses to come get the help we need from other veterans.”

The center is a place where vets can find help not only in transitioning back to civilian life, but they can also get vocational rehabilitation, benefit from programs for veteran disabilities and career and job placement.

Both Saddleback and IVC campus’ have a Veteran’s Center and a remodel is currently in process for Saddleback College.

A principle of excellence was signed in July for educational institutions serving veterans and their families.

“President Obama said if you have veterans on campus, there are certain guidelines to follow in supporting services to offer,” said Saddleback College Counselor Kolin Williams.

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