In recognition of the bravery and dedication of those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, Marymount University hosted its annual Veterans Day Luncheon on November 12. Students, faculty, staff and community members gathered together to honor the University’s military-affiliated population and reflect on the enduring values of duty, leadership and service.
The luncheon highlighted Marymount’s deep commitment to supporting veterans and active-duty students through programs and resources that help them thrive academically and personally while transitioning into civilian life.
“Veterans Day is more than just a day on the calendar,” said Marymount University President Irma Becerra. “It is a call to remember the courage, sacrifice and unwavering sense of duty of those who have worn our nation’s uniform.”
Following her remarks, President Becerra introduced the keynote speaker, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Westbrook. Lt. Col. Westbrook enlisted as an infantry officer in 2003 and served several tours in Iraq with the 82nd Airborne Division and 25th Infantry Division. Over his two-decade career, he held key strategic roles and earned commendations that include the Bronze Star, Legion of Merit and Joint Service Commendation Medal before retiring in 2023.
In his address, Lt. Col. Westbrook spoke about the benefits of military service and emphasized the value that veterans bring to civilian careers and communities.
“Veteran populations are extremely valuable to our workforce,” he said. “Selflessly serving our nation allows them to develop incredibly valuable skills such as empathy and a deep respect for others. Their wealth of knowledge and unique capabilities can be absolutely invaluable to businesses and organizations in every industry.”
He also shared personal advice for student veterans navigating higher education and life after service.
“I’ve seen men and women come home and try to take on too much too quickly. Even though they are great at jumping out of airplanes and fighting bad guys, there are still some things they don’t know. My advice to them—walk into every environment with a beginner’s mindset. It takes a lot of humility, but if you can keep yourself open to learning new things and making mistakes, you can channel your unique experiences and perspectives into opportunities for growth.”
President Becerra also recognized the dedication of Marymount’s faculty and staff veterans who continue to serve as mentors and educators.
“Thank you to the former service members we have on our faculty and staff who have chosen to continue their mission here at Marymount,” she said. “Your work guiding and mentoring the next generation of students reminds us daily what it means to lead with integrity and purpose.”
Among those in attendance was student veteran Kelly Hailey, who traveled from Quantico to Arlington to celebrate with her fellow servicemembers. A Michigan native, Hailey served in the U.S. Army as a signal support system specialist and later as a combat medic with the Airborne Division. Her passion for helping others led her to pursue a degree in nursing through Marymount’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program.
“I am grateful to have a school like Marymount,” Hailey said. “The University is truly dedicated to helping its veteran students transition back into civilian life and succeed academically. Here, we’re not just numbers or statistics—we’re part of a supportive and compassionate community that wants to see us thrive.”
As the event concluded, President Becerra reaffirmed Marymount’s commitment to fostering a campus environment that celebrates service and supports student veterans in their academic and professional journeys.
“At Marymount, we take immense pride in our veteran and military-affiliated community,” she said. “Our student veterans bring an invaluable perspective to our classrooms. Balancing academic goals while transitioning to civilian life is no small task, yet you do so with determination and grace. You inspire all of us through your example of service and perseverance.”
