Alvernia University Honors Veterans, Celebrates Growth of Veterans Center
Annual Veterans Day Ceremony Features Muhlenberg High School Air Force JROTC Color Guard, Student Veterans and More
Alvernia University hosted a Veterans Day program on Nov. 10 to recognize and honor the courage, commitment and sacrifice of those who have served and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces.
"Veterans Day is an opportunity for the Alvernia community to come together to recognize the courage, sacrifice and dedication of those who have answered our nation's call to serve," said Col. (Ret.) Deb Geiger, military recruitment and success coordinator at Alvernia University. "As we gathered this year in Francis Hall during its 100th anniversary year, we are reminded of the journey of St. Francis of Assisi, who served as a soldier before dedicating his life to compassion, service and peace. His story reminds us that true strength is found not only in courage on the battlefield, but also in service to others. These are values that continue to guide our Alvernia community and reflect the spirit of the veterans we honor today.”
Alvernia recently strengthened its commitment to supporting military-connected students with the addition of Geiger as military recruitment and student success coordinator. An Alvernia alumna and decorated U.S. Army veteran, Geiger brings decades of military leadership and service to the role. Drawing on her extensive experience and longstanding commitment to service, Geiger will support veterans, active-duty service members and military-connected students as they pursue their educational goals at Alvernia.
The program featured participation from the Muhlenberg High School Air Force JROTC Color Guard, the Alvernia Chorus, Bernardine Franciscan Sisters Marie and Marietta, and guest speakers including current student veterans and Alvernia faculty member Professor Eric Robuck, who served in the military for 24 years.
The ceremony also featured two Alvernia student veterans: Scarlenny Guaragna, a junior cybersecurity major and former U.S. Navy Seabee who held the rank of Builder Third Class, and Rocky Diaz, a first-year criminal justice major and specialist in the Pennsylvania National Guard, where he serves as a wheeled vehicle mechanic.
“Being in the Guard has given me a different way of looking at service. It’s not just about being ready for big deployments; it’s about showing up for your community every month, training with the same people, and knowing that what we do directly supports the state and the people around us. I’m a community person at heart, and the Guard lets me serve in a way that stays connected to home. That matters to me,” said Diaz.
“I’m currently in my first year of studying criminal justice here at Alvernia University in hopes of becoming a police officer here in Reading in the future. I’m planning to apply soon to the police academy and see where that road takes me while also continuing my education. On this Veterans Day, I’m proud to stand with every Soldier, past and present, who answered the call and I’m grateful the Guard has given me the chance to serve my community while I work toward protecting it as a police officer one day.”
Alvernia's Continued Commitment to Military-affiliated Students
Alvernia's commitment to supporting veterans and military-affiliated students extends beyond its annual Veterans Day celebration. The university has also been named a Military Friendly® School, earning a silver designation in recognition of its dedicated resources, flexible pathways and financial assistance for military-affiliated students.
Through its Veterans Center, Alvernia provides a welcoming space for student veterans and military-affiliated students to connect, share experiences and access resources. The university also offers dedicated admissions and financial aid counseling, academic advising and career services, and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program to help make higher education more accessible and affordable for veterans and their dependents.
“Student veterans bring leadership, experience, and a deep commitment to service to Alvernia,” said Chief Enrollment and Strategic Communications Officer, Gaetan T. Giannini, Ed.D. “We want them to know where to turn for support from the moment they consider applying through graduation and as they prepare for their next career. That’s why we continue to invest in the Veterans Center and in dedicated staff who can help student veterans navigate the transition to college, connect with peers, and stay on track to earn their degrees.”
To learn about the Veterans Center at Alvernia University, visit www.alvernia.edu/student-experience/veterans-center.