EDITORIAL: Student veterans integral to UNLV

November 12, 2009 by Editorial staff 

The UNLV Student Veterans Organization estimates that about 500 veterans are enrolled at the university.

This is the largest concentration of veterans in Nevada, and just one of the many reasons Rebels should pay extra thanks to those who serve the U.S. with their time and their lives.

The culture of nontraditional students, like student veterans, is part of what defines UNLV’s unique identity. As students, it is fitting that we celebrate Veterans’ Day not only as a time to remember members of the armed forces, but as an opportunity to acknowledge how the lives and experiences of the veterans among us enrich the culture of this university and aid its rise.

The UNLV SVO is a fine example of what students can do to make a difference and of how the hard work of a few visionary members of the campus community can make a big difference for the future.

After a period of dormancy, the SVO reappeared on the student organization scene in late 2008, after former president Michael Dakduk noticed the need for a place where student veterans could come together to share experiences, build relationships and find support as they acclimatized to civilian life and higher education.

Less than a year later, Dakduk was elected to the position of vice president for the national organization Student Veterans of America, continuing his commitment to service in a new way.

Because of the vision and passion of this student veteran, UNLV has gained national notoriety and begun stepping up to lead other institutions toward greater understanding of one of the most often overlooked demographics on college campuses.

The men and women, like current president Antonio Montenegro, who helped Dakduk breathe new life into the SVO are still here, working tirelessly to bring opportunities to our student veterans.

Their efforts exemplify an ideal that extends beyond the public recognition veterans see nationally on the days set aside each year to remember them.

There have been plans for some time to construct a monument at UNLV to honor our veterans – the first of its kind in Las Vegas. From what we have heard, these plans have been moving along and the plan may come to fruition soon, an impressive feat for a student organization on this campus.

As you return from the Veterans Day recess, ponder this: UNLV is home to about 500 people who live every day as both veterans and Rebels. It is only fitting that we should recognize this dual identity for how good and honorable it is, just as often.

UNLV should be proud to have the opportunity to have these men and women on our campus, and always remember what they have done for our community and nation.