Oxford Welcomes New Transportation for Student Veterans
Oxford, MS – The University of Mississippi’s Veteran and Military Services now has a shiny new 2024 Chevrolet Suburban, thanks to a generous gift from an anonymous Ole Miss graduate. The vehicle is stationed at the George Street House, the office’s headquarters, and it is fully equipped to support the student veteran community.
A Gift of Gratitude
The donor, who wished to remain unnamed, expressed their deep appreciation for those who serve in the armed forces. “We thank God for the great men and women of our armed services,” the donor stated. “We owe such a debt of gratitude to those who’ve served all over the world to support and defend the Constitution and provide security to all of us so we can continue to have the freedom to pursue the American dream.”
This new vehicle will play a critical role for student veterans, allowing them to travel together for conferences and providing transportation for various needs. The Suburban will also help with rides to doctors’ appointments at the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center in Jackson, and it is intended to assist with grocery deliveries for those veterans who do not have their own means of transportation.
Addressing Transportation Needs
The donor emphasized the necessity of ensuring safety and accessibility for veterans. “It is unconscionable to think those who have served or will serve to keep us all safe may not have needed safe transportation,” they said. “We hope this gift will help.”
Andrew Newby, the assistant director of Veteran and Military Services, shared his excitement about the gift. He stated, “This gift is incredible, and it has made an immediate impact on how veterans can engage others outside of campus.” He noted that the office frequently collaborates with various external organizations, and this vehicle will enhance their ability to do so.
Welcome Home Campaign
The donation is linked to the office’s “Welcome Home” campaign fund. This fund aims to provide a way for the public to express gratitude for veterans’ sacrifices and to address tangible needs that arise as they transition from military to civilian life on campus. “Many of these student veterans gave away their 20s to go and do what this nation asked of them,” Newby explained. “They’ve written their blood type on their clothes to go to work every day, and they’ve proudly served everyone in the nation before choosing to attend college.”
He emphasized that this gift helps military-connected students feel valued and recognized for their service, stating that having community support greatly impacts their experience in higher education.
How to Contribute
Those inspired to support the VMS “Welcome Home” campaign fund can do so by sending a check with the fund’s name on the memo line to the University of Mississippi Foundation at 406 University Ave., Oxford, MS 38655. For more details, interested parties can reach out to Brett Barefoot, the executive director of central development, at bmbarefo@olemiss.edu or call 662-915-2711.
This new Suburban will not only help student veterans travel better but also affirm their contributions to society. It represents a step forward in offering the support and recognition that these individuals deserve as they navigate their educational journeys.
