CWU Honors Veterans in New Crimson and Black Publication

Central Washington University's support for the United States armed services dates back to World War I, when the university conducted regular bond drives and hosted "community sings."

Over the past century, CWU's commitment to veterans has never waned, and today, the university is considered a destination for student-veterans from around the Northwest. This fall, CWU is honoring its past and present military veterans with a special edition of Crimson and Black magazine.

Among the most important steps Central took to become a more veteran-focused institution was when it established a Veterans Services Office in 2009 to help facilitate the transition for those leaving active duty to enter higher education. In 2019, the center was relocated into its own, larger space known as the CWU Veterans Center. Director Ruben Cardenas considers that a milestone for the university and its student-veterans.

"There's some symbolism that the university is displaying by having a dedicated space-that we care about this student population," he said. "And our students feel a little more welcome in a space that is dedicated to them."

Among that group is Sherice Fraser, the student Veterans Club president. A US Army veteran, she is committed to helping her peers feel welcomed at CWU, as she did.

"One of my friends, who was prior active duty, was going to Central and he told me all about the school," she explained. "So, I reached out to Central and the communication I had with staff was good. My paperwork was processed quickly and I was able to get in on time to start ROTC and my college classes."

Read more about CWU's connection with its student-veterans-and how the university continues to develop those bonds-in the new Crimson and Black university magazine, available this month.