Keiser University’s West Palm Beach Campus recently celebrated the opening of its Student Veterans Resource Center at a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.

Guests enjoyed learning more about the campus as they were welcomed by president Kimberly Lea. They were then delighted to gain insight relating to Keiser University’s veterans resources as Belinda Keiser, Keiser University’s Vice Chancellor of Community Relations and Student Advancement shared information relating to the importance of the facility and how it will serve Keiser University’s large population of student veterans.

Made possible by a generous donation from Joe Arrigo, Vice President of Arrigo Dodge Chrysler Jeep and a Korean War Air Force veteran, the area will serve as both a relaxing and functional space, with computer labs and other electronics courtesy of campus President Kimberly Lea which offer access to a variety of informational and inspirational tools.

Designed by Dr. Pamela Mertens the campus’ Student Veterans Association (SVA) Advisor and Criminal Justice Department Chair and a Marine and Navy Reserve veteran, the area is highlighted by a digitally printed mural and welcomes guests with a lantern paying homage to all non-returning or missing service members, as well as flags representing all branches of the military.

Conceptualized by Mertens along with Kerri Percy, Keiser University’s Director of Social Media and Alumni Relations, the dramatic 23’x 9’ mural was made possible by a generous donation from James Capuano, President and Owner of Veterans Print Management and a Vietnam veteran of the United States Marines. After being conceptualized by Mertens to relay calmness and serenity, Percy, a close friend of Mertens, was able to tap into the vision and memorialize those wounded or lost in action by drawing the eye to vivid images of the Honor and Purple Heart medals as well as moving illustrations representing men and women in all branches of service.

To learn more about Keiser University’s veterans’ resources, please visit: https://www.keiseruniversity.edu/military/veterans/