Chancellor Kent Syverud (third from right), Vice Chancellor Mike Haynie (far right) and Syracuse University’s Veterans Affinity Group president Jennifer Pluta (second from right) are pictured with student and employee veterans at Thursday’s social.
Over 50 members of the campus community gathered Thursday at the Genesee Grande Hotel in support of the University’s Veterans Affinity Group (SUVA.) Hosted in partnership with the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA), Chancellor Kent Syverud attended the SUVA event with Syracuse University veterans, military-connected individuals, dependents and supporters in an effort to bring military-connected and traditional populations together to create a more diverse and inclusive campus experience.
Established in 2014, SUVA is an inclusive group open to all members of campus with military service experience or a passion for supporting those who have served. The group has grown to over 200 members since its founding with the intention of creating a distinct community supportive of the University’s military-connected employees and students.
“Our growing and engaged veteran and military-connected community on campus is a big part of why we are the ‘best place for veterans,’” says Ron Novack, OVMA executive director. “This event, and others like it, are a fantastic way to build a sense of community on campus. We are proud to spearhead efforts to bring this population together and support them.”
The SUVA also hosts various events and opportunities to connect throughout the year, including meetings every second Thursday of the month and bi-annual clean ups of the veteran section of Oakwood Cemetery.
“The members of SUVA are engaged, dedicated and focused on the veteran and military-connected population here at Syracuse,” says Paula MacDonald, associate director of organizational development and training at the University. “With the support from many around campus and the passion of the group’s leaders, SUVA has become an impressive example of what affinity groups can accomplish for those they serve while supporting the mission of the University.”
SUVA accepts new members throughout the year. Regardless of membership, faculty and staff veterans, military-connected employees and dependents are able to enter or update their military status on My Slice under “Personal Services,” “View/Update Military Status.” In doing so, the University and OVMA are able to gain a broader understanding of Syracuse’s veteran/military community.
To join the SUVA, email SUVA president Jennifer Pluta at jrpluta@syr.edu.
