Moreno Valley College Honors Veterans at 8th Annual Scholarship Ceremony
Moreno Valley College’s (MVC) 8th Annual Veterans Scholarship Ceremony gathered students, employees, and community members to celebrate the service and sacrifices of veterans. The event began with the Presentation of Colors led by the March Air Reserve Base Honor Guard, followed by the MVC Choir.
Keri Then, member of the RCCD Board of Trustees and retired US Air Force Veteran, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the importance of the Veterans Resource Center at MVC. "This center is not just a physical space; it is a lifeline—a community built by Veterans, for Veterans,” Then shared.
She encouraged continued support for military Veterans through education, mentorship, and community involvement.
Congressman Mark Takano, representing California’s 39th Congressional District, also offered remarks, thanking the student veterans for their service and recognizing the importance of supporting them as they transition to civilian life and pursue their academic and professional goals.
Leslie Alarcon, assistant professor of counseling assigned to the Veterans Resource Center, presented scholarships to four exceptional student Veterans. Among the recipients was Jorge Benitez, who served in the US Marine Corps and is pursuing a degree in cybersecurity. Benitez, who has maintained a 4.0 GPA, expressed his gratitude by saying, "Being awarded this scholarship is a true blessing. It gives me hope that I can succeed academically and continue my journey."
Other scholarship recipients included Keambria Mass, a US Air Force Veteran pursuing nursing; Devon Bermudez, a Navy Reservist balancing work and studies while pursuing a nursing career; and Joshua Sehnert, a Coast Guard Veteran working toward a career as a paramedic firefighter.
The ceremony highlighted Moreno Valley College's ongoing commitment to supporting its Veteran students, providing them with the resources and community they need to thrive. With each scholarship awarded, the event serves as a reminder and celebration of the bright futures ahead for these resilient and determined individuals.
