In previous years, Veterans Day at Michigan State University was typically observed as a single day. This year, however, it expanded into a week-long celebration through a partnership with the Career Services Office for Academics, Resources and Engagement, and co-sponsorship from the Asian Pacific American Law Student Association. Philiste described the effort as "highlighting a portion of the community that doesn’t often get recognized but is a vital necessity for our country."

The College of Law SVA structured this week’s events around themes connected to the legal field, Piliste stating that it was "designed to highlight veterans and bring together different aspects of the legal community that either directly impact veterans or do something to benefit society as a whole."

This particular event, however, focused more on honoring those who served as well as the value of community and education among veterans.

Director of the Center for Veterans and Military-Affiliated Students Patrick Forystek emphasized the importance of community when talking about veterans, especially in academic spaces. "Universities have become a transition point for veterans since the creation of the post-9/11 G.I. Bill," Forystek said. "Holding these ceremonies really helps build that community and sense of belonging," he added, noting that, "we see improved retention, persistence and graduation."

Forystek wasn’t the only one to highlight the role of community. Each of the six speakers at the event reflected on the theme in their own way, speaking about military families, college, veterans and the broader sense of belonging to the nation.

"Today is about recognition, but it’s also about responsibility," said Captain Joshua Lacroix, U.S. Army Commander of the Lansing Recruiting Company within the Great Lakes Recruiting Battalion. He emphasized the need for unity and support, adding, "We need to ensure that our communities are connected. We need to ensure their families are included within our communities."

The event also included a toy drive that had been collecting toys since Oct. 22. The Student Bar Association, Latinos Unidos Law Student Association, and Scouting America collaborated to organize the effort, with donations going to the Marines Toys for Tots Foundation and One Michigan, a nonprofit organization supporting immigrant and undocumented families. 

Ashley Singh, the Student Bar Association Committee Service Chair and a second-year law student, described it as a "combined effort throughout the law school."

Kirsten noted that SVA reached out to other student organizations to help out with the toy drive and stated, "When we all join together for a common purpose of helping those who are less fortunate, we can produce amazing things."

Kerry Singh, East Lansing City Council and Mayor Pro Tem, was also in attendance and spoke at the event. During her speech, Singh mentioned becoming more educated on veterans by listening to the speakers and the value of veterans' input in government affairs.

"Never have fear to use your voice," Singh said. 

The organization will continue to host more events for veterans throughout this week, specifically surrounding the law.