LA MIRADA, CALIF. — Biola University will officially open the new Biola Veteran Center for Military Affiliated Students on Sept. 16 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on campus. State Sen. Bob Archuleta and Majority Leader Ian Calderon will speak at the event in addition to Biola student veterans.

US News and World Report recently named Biola on their list of 2020 Best Colleges for Veterans. The university has increased efforts in recent years to support their 130 student veterans and approximately 140 students with military affiliated families.

“At Biola we count it a privilege to serve our growing population of veteran students, recognizing the great sacrifices they have made in serving our nation,” said Biola University President Barry H. Corey. “It is my hope and prayer that through this dedicated place on campus, our veterans will not only receive their university degrees but will continue their legacy of wide impact through faithful service.”

The Biola Veteran Center for Military Affiliated Students will be located in the Upper Student Union Building. Equipped with computers, a printer, fridge, eating area, smart television, and central meeting area, the center is designed to provide a welcoming and functional environment for veterans and military affiliated students. The center is supervised by Jennifer Alvarez, Coordinator for Veteran Programs, and staffed by a team of VA Work Study students. In conjunction with the university’s Veteran Programs, the center will host educational webinars and other events designed to foster dialogue and collaborative learning for student Veterans, faculty, and staff.

Biola Veterans Association (BVA) students contributed to the fruition of the center. BVA exists to be a source of “support, representation, and camaraderie for all veterans and service members at Biola.” Learn more about Biola’s veterans services online.

At the event, veterans and military affiliated family members in attendance will be given challenge coins. A short program will commence at 10:30 a.m. with refreshments served following the official ribbon cutting at approximately 11:20 a.m. Tours of the new space will be available after the ribbon cutting.

Press are invited to attend the event. Please contact Jenna Loumagne at jenna.loumagne@biola.edu for more information or to receive a press pass.