Dear Members of the Campus Community,

This Thursday marks the annual observation of Veterans Day—a time set aside to pay tribute to American veterans in recognition of their service and sacrifice.

The commitment to defend America and Americans is a noble calling. Those who answer the call to service, whether as a member of the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy or Space Force, put others before themselves every day to protect our country’s freedom, safety, and democracy.

Our community is enriched by the presence of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, as well as the generations of veterans in our student body, as well as among our faculty, staff, alumni, trustees and Puget Sound parents. They deepen our understanding of patriotism and public policy in a very personal way, modeling a commitment to civic engagement that is absolutely essential to the functioning of a free and open society.

There are a number of activities taking place on campus this week, including a Veterans Brunch on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the McCormick Room for veterans and their families; and an “Artifacts of Service” exhibit running all week in the East Reading Room at Collins Memorial Library. Please take advantage of these opportunities to be in community with one another.

Both of my parents were veterans, and I know that their strongly held beliefs about the importance of service have shaped my life and my work in every way. To the veterans in our community—thank you. We see you and appreciate you.

With much gratitude,

Isiaah
Isiaah Crawford, Ph.D. | President