USD, home to over 500 student veterans or their dependents, is opening a new Veteran’s Center on campus. The University of San Diego Veteran’s Center is a place where student veterans can connect with their peers, share experiences, and enhance their comfort level with life on campus. This Center will be the only one found on the West Coast on the campus of a private university.

The official opening of the Veteran’s Center will take place in Forum A in the University Center. USD President Mary E. Lyons, herself a U.S. Navy veteran, Congresswoman Susan Davis, Congressman Scott Peters, San Diego City Councilman Ed Harris, and Assemblyman Rocky Chavez will be in attendance.

The Veterans Center is designed to function as a one-stop shop where students can have questions answered on topics ranging from military benefits and financial aid packages to professional networking opportunities. Located on the second floor of the Hahn University Center in office suite 225, the space will include an all-purpose area where students can hold meetings, study sessions, or just relax and shoot the breeze with fellow students who understand their experiences and speak their language. The Center is run by retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer (MCPO) Laura Paquian.