DENTON, Texas – The University of North Texas (UNT), in partnership with the city of Denton and Texas Woman’s University, observed Veterans Day with a series of commemorative events. The celebration included UNT staff, students, and various ROTC program members, emphasizing the university’s commitment to veteran students and their families.
The Veterans Day on the Square event in Denton saw active participation from UNT’s Student Veteran Services staff and members of the UNT Student Veterans Association. Both the UNT Army ROTC and Air Force ROTC programs were represented. The event featured a wreath-laying ceremony and a bagpipe performance by the Denton Fire Department. Among the guest speakers was James Davenport, Director of UNT Student Veteran Services, who highlighted the university’s vision of leading in student veteran participation and success.
“Our goal is to support veterans throughout their journey, from military life to academic achievement and career success,” Davenport stated. UNT’s Student Veteran Services provides a broad spectrum of programs including mentorship, academic support, and social activities, catering to over 3,000 student veterans and their dependents.
The UNT Career Center extends its services to veteran students with resume assistance, veteran-specific career fairs, and job interview preparation. Additionally, Counseling and Testing Services offer specialized mental health support, including military-related counseling, peer support groups, and access to therapy animals.
Davenport expressed a continued commitment to honoring and supporting UNT’s veteran community, emphasizing the university’s dedication to providing valuable resources and quality education. UNT’s efforts in supporting veterans have been recognized nationally, earning it titles such as a Purple Heart University and a Gold Military Friendly Tier One Research Institution. The university also received the State of Texas Veteran Education Excellence Recognition Award for two consecutive years.
In the latest Military Times Best for Vets college rankings, UNT was ranked 29th out of 325 universities nationwide, marking its consistent presence in the top rankings.
Katherine Nelson Ortiz, a UNT junior and the cadet battalion executive officer for the university’s Army ROTC program, shared her personal connection to Veterans Day, influenced by her father’s military service. Studying biology with aspirations of a dental career in the military, Nelson Ortiz reflects on the impact of her father’s values and experiences on her life and career choices.
Veterans Day, observed on November 11th, commemorates the armistice of World War I and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. UNT’s involvement in the Denton city event highlights its ongoing commitment to supporting its veteran community.