Alvernia University

"Alvernia's campus community takes great pride in serving and recognizing those who have served in the United States Military," said Veterans Center Coordinator, Bret Krotee. "It is wonderful to be part of a team that provides the necessary resources and support to ensure military student academic success, professional development, and positive mental health."

17 veteran students graduated in the 2022 commencement commencement ceremony. The Alvernia University Veterans Center strives to to raise awareness of what is endured and accomplished by those who serve our country, and aims to provide anyone with ties to (or an interest in) the military with the resources, support, and advocacy necessary to succeed in higher education and industry. It serves as a comfortable place for veteran students to bond, study, socialize, and share experiences.

At age 25, Eric Sears has already served his country well. The Marine veteran who served four years and one deployment to Afghanistan is now back home in Pennsylvania, a junior majoring in sport management at Alvernia University. But this spring break, he is not following his classmates to the beach. Instead, he is spending it on a hospital bed, donating stem cells to save the life of a fellow veteran with leukemia -- one he will likely never meet.