The Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) recently marked the grand re-opening of the Nevada Military Support Alliance Major General Ronald J. Bath Veterans and Families Center (VFC) and unveiled a new Rotary District 5190 Peace Pole. The event took place on November 8, drawing students, faculty, staff, and community partners to celebrate the center’s commitment to supporting veterans transitioning from military to academic life.
During the ceremony held at the V. James Eardley Student Center, attendees gathered to commemorate the VFC’s 10th anniversary. Felipe Gutierrez, Veterans Program Director, highlighted improvements in services for veterans: “This reopening will allow us to serve veterans even better,” he said. He emphasized that veterans would no longer have to use a conference room for mental health appointments and encouraged community involvement in supporting the center.
Major General Ronald J. Bath expressed gratitude for the recognition and support shown by TMCC and the Nevada Military Support Alliance: “We do it out of love for our nation… I’m honored. Thank you very much,” he stated during his speech.
Nursing student Rachelle Rodriguez shared her personal experience with the VFC: “The VRC is my home away from home – a haven in my school life,” she said, noting how crucial their support was in her transition to civilian life.
Later that day, TMCC also hosted a ceremony to introduce a newly installed Rotary Peace Pole at Dandini Campus plaza. The pole bears “May Peace Prevail On Earth” in eight languages, symbolizing unity among cultures. TMCC President Dr. Karin Hilgersom remarked on its significance: “TMCC is honored to be home to a ‘Peace Pole.’ We hope for no war or strife because it has wrecked families and societies.”
Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Jeffrey Alexander concluded with appreciation for student participation: “Thanks, everyone, for being here… I think planting this peace pole means a lot.”
For further details about these initiatives, visit the VFC and President’s Office websites.
