Fayetteville State University (FSU) proudly hosted its Annual Military Appreciation Luncheon to honor veterans' service, sacrifice, commitment, active-duty service members, and military-affiliated students on Thursday, April 17. Held at the Rudolph Jones Student Center, the event welcomed more than 200 attendees, including members of the Bronco community and regional military leaders, and honored guests for a celebration of courage, resilience and academic achievement.
As one of the nation's top military-friendly institutions and located near Fort Bragg, FSU has long embraced its role in supporting the military community. The luncheon, now in its third year, highlighted the University's ongoing commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education and support services for those who serve and their families.
"As the nation's leading HBCU for the highest number of enrolled military-affiliated students, Fayetteville State University is proud to honor the strength and sacrifices of our military families,” said Chancellor Darrell T. Allison. "Events like this luncheon reflect our deep appreciation and ongoing commitment to those who support our service members at home and abroad."
In recognition of FSU's commitment to military families, First Lady Anna Stein, wife of Governor Josh Stein, along with Roderick White of the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, presented a signed proclamation from Governor Josh Stein to Chancellor Allison and the University proclaiming April 5, as Gold Star Spouses Day. This day will honor the surviving spouses of fallen service members and acknowledge their strength, sacrifice, and enduring resilience. You can read the proclamation here.
The program also featured a robust panel discussion moderated by Mrs. La Nica Allison (wife of Chancellor Allison) of Fayetteville State University. The panel brought together distinguished military spouses from Fort Liberty's leading commands to share their experiences, challenges, and perspectives on service, family, and community. Panelists included:
Their insightful dialogue highlighted the vital roles military spouses play in maintaining the strength and resilience of the armed forces and inspired FSU's military-affiliated students and families in attendance.
"I was honored to join the conversation around the importance of supporting our military spouses and families," said First Lady Stein. "These women exemplify the courage and strength it takes to be a military spouse. I want to thank FSU for hosting this luncheon, and I applaud them for all they are doing to help support our military families so they can, in turn, support their servicemembers."
The luncheon also included remarks from university leadership and recognition of ROTC cadets. FSU continues to provide critical resources, including academic advising, benefits assistance, and transition support, ensuring that military-affiliated students succeed in and out of the classroom.
As a Gold-level Military Friendly® School with a long history of military engagement, FSU remains committed to honoring service while equipping students for leadership in their next chapter.
For more information about FSU's support for military students, visit this link.
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