Edison State Community College receives grant from Walmart to stock Veterans’ Lounge

Edison State Community College's The Edison Foundation has received a $1,500 grant from Walmart for its Piqua campus Veterans’ Lounge, a specially designated area on campus that is meant to be a place for veteran students to connect with each other, as well as study and relax. The grant funds were presented to Edison State Community College by Nathan Kelly, the store manager of the Piqua Walmart.

According to an article on Edison State Community College’s website, Kelly shared his and Walmart’s support for the Veterans’ Lounge. He is quoted as saying, “The most important step for veterans as they return to civilian life is the opportunity for continued learning. Edison State’s Veterans’ Lounge project has proven to be an important resource for so many of our local veterans in support of their academic journey. In appreciation of the service and sacrifices made by our veterans and their families, Walmart is proud to support this program with essential supplies so it may continue serving those who served our country.”

The Veterans’ Lounge was opened on Edison State’s Piqua campus on Veterans’ Day in 2010. The lounge has a TV, books, snacks, drinks, and school supplies available to veteran students as they utilize the lounge for studying, relaxing, or a place to connect with fellow veterans on campus. The money to provide the snacks and drinks for the lounge comes entirely from community grants like the one received from Walmart, which the school expects will cover the costs of stocking the lounge for the next two years. All of the supplies to stock the lounge will be purchased from the Piqua Walmart.

Edison State Community College holds a Collegiate Purple Star Award for its dedication to providing support and resources for its veteran and military students. In addition to its Veterans Lounge, Edison State Community College also provides priority registration for veterans, allowing them to register for classes before others, dedicated advisors, access to the Ohio Veterans Resource Guide, and flexible course options.

“Veterans often return home and simultaneously juggle families, employment, and schooling. Walmart cares for its community and our veterans, and we are incredibly thankful for their continued support,” said Joe Ratermann, Edison State Community College’s Career Pathways Advisor and Veterans’ Services Specialist.

For more information about Edison State Community College, visit the school’s website.