Niagara University cuts ribbon on new veterans lounge

Veteran-friendly area features work and relaxation space

Niagara University reaffirmed its commitment to being a veteran-friendly campus when it cut a ribbon on the newly renovated veterans lounge in DePaul Hall on Thursday. The ceremony was held on the 75th anniversary of D-Day.

“Niagara University has a long and proud history with the United States Armed Forces, and today we extend that legacy for the men and women who have so bravely defended the freedoms so important to our country,” said the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., Niagara University president. “It is our mission to serve our students to ensure their success on campus and in their chosen career. By providing our veteran students with a place to meet, study and relax while they are on campus, they are better able to achieve academic success at Niagara University.”

The new lounge features computers, workstations, and a meeting area for students to use as needed while at Niagara. It also has a TV lounge, new furniture, a microwave, popcorn machine, and other amenities that students can use when taking a break from their academic work.

“The completion of the lounge is just another step in Niagara University’s commitment to improving the campus experience for our student-veterans,” said Robert Healy, director of veteran services. “We continue to be grateful for the service of the men and women who have given of themselves to make our freedoms a reality, and we will continue to help them achieve their goals as they transition into civilian life.”

Last month, NU was recognized as the best in New York and No. 2 in the country for “Best Education Programs for Veterans,” according to the higher education insights firm College Factual. This is the second year in a row NU is the top school in the Empire State for veterans studying education. Niagara is also ranked as one of the country’s top 10 small private schools for American military veterans and their families, according to 2018-19 rankings from Victory Media, publisher of G.I. Jobs, STEM Jobs, and Military Spouse. NU was also ranked as a Best for Veterans by U.S. News and World Report.

NU has a long history of honoring and supporting military students, veterans and their families. The Catholic and Vincentian university supports a U.S. Army ROTC program, which placed third in the nation on the National Accessions Outcome Metrics List in 2017, and participates in the Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program, a provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008.

Military alumni include two Medal of Honor recipients (Gen. William Donovan and Lt. John Bobo) and a humanitarian nominated for sainthood (Father Nelson Baker).

For more information about NU’s efforts to assist American veterans, call 716-286-8341 or visit www.niagara.edu/veterans.