SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College paid homage and showed its gratitude for all veterans by hosting their annual, “Veterans Appreciation Day” event in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, November 7, 2017.
The program opened with music major and second year SSC student Amy Watson, who sang a beautiful accapella rendition of the National Anthem which received a resounding ovation. Students, faculty, staff, and community members came to hear Commander Phillip Willis of the National Association of Black Veterans speak on “Freedom, Sacrifice, and Honor.” He told of his experiences and advised the audience to please “thank veterans for their service” as they have made an ultimate commitment to preserve the freedoms that we, as U.S. citizens, enjoy today. His speech brought applause and some tears as many thanked him afterwards.
A panel of SSC students and staff rounded out the presentation. They included:
- U.S. Veteran and Dean of Adult Education, Matt Beasland
- U.S. Veteran of Army National Guard and U.S. Navy, Odell Braziel. Mr. Braziel is an IT Programmer of SSC Network Systems
- U.S. Veteran and SSC Graduate, Pamela Dorsey
- Current Student and U.S. Veteran Waynemond Cotton
Mr. Beasland moderated the discussion and provided historical commentary. The panelists shared personal experiences and students asked relevant questions during the final question and answer portion of the event. A standing ovation was given to both the guest speaker and panelists and the event ended with camaraderie and well wishes for a better understanding of our Veteran population and the sacrifices they have made as “freedom isn’t free.”
For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718.
