Nov. 8 was an unforgettable day for our TMCC community. The grand re-opening of the Nevada Military Support Alliance (NMSA) Major General Ronald J. Bath Veterans and Families Center (VFC) and unveiling of the Rotary District 5190 Peace Pole united students, faculty, staff, and partners in a transformative atmosphere of fellowship. Diversity and equality shape our school’s foundations, and reveling in this conviction were advocates across Northern Nevada. Opportunity thrives on our campus, gainfully changing lives through a commitment to higher education. We celebrated the inclusive culture we represent while continuing the essential work for those yearning to grow professionally.
Scared Is What You’re Feeling, Brave Is What You’re Doing
Dozens arrived to express their support during the VFC remodel ceremony inside the V. James Eardley Student Center. Light streaked through the pronounced windows, shining vividly on the American and Nevada State flags standing proudly center stage. Commemorating its 10th anniversary, team members, veterans, active duty, family, and friends mingled amidst the rustic amass of chairs before taking their seats. A decade of loyal service assisting students transitioning from the military to the academic environment spirited the crowd. Having an advisor who understands your experience rewards a feeling of safety – remarkably improving the mindset of individuals confronting doubts about returning home. Regardless of branch, they’ve heroically donned a uniform to protect their country and our freedoms. Establishing a relatable communication line is invaluable because loneliness is a dream destroyer. But not at TMCC. Not with our considerate personnel.
“This reopening will allow us to serve veterans even better,” said Veterans Program Director Felipe Gutierrez in his opening remarks. “Veterans will no longer have to see the VA social worker for mental health appointments in a conference room, which students have dubbed ‘the fishbowl.’ We pledge to provide resources and create a space that empowers. The center belongs to all of us as a community. It’s a shared responsibility, and I encourage you to consider how you can contribute, whether volunteering, mentoring, or simply exchanging information about the program.”
Major General Ronald J. Bath sat toward the front with his daughter, heeding the uplifting, grateful reflections from TMCC President Dr. Karin Hilgersom, Vice President of Student Services Estella Gutierrez, NMSA Founding Board Member Perry DiLoreto, NMSA President Dan Morgan, and Marine Veteran and Social Work Undergraduate Gregory Hillman. Then, everyone turned their attention to the projection screen as Hilgersom stood beside a beige canopy hanging from the wall behind her. “It is my honor to announce the opening of the Major General Ronald J. Bath Veterans and Families Center,” Hilgersom said, removing the cloth to reveal the newly constructed placard, happily catching Bath by surprise. The audience rose for a booming standing ovation. Misty eyes dabbed, and muffled sniffles echoed as he began his heartfelt recognition speech, floundering to find the words to convey his immense appreciation.
“We do it out of love for our nation. What the Nevada Military Support Alliance did here shows a fondness for our community and TMCC. I’m honored. Thank you very much. To all the veterans and service you’ve given, our country owes you,” said Bath.
As people moved upstairs to witness the renovations, they read wooden easels bearing student accounts and VFC history enclosed by the U.S.A.’s red, white, and blue colors.
“The VRC is my home away from home – a haven in my school life. I can always rely on them for support when I need it the most. After leaving the service, they welcomed me with open arms, allowing me to transition to civilian life at my own pace. It was comforting to know that everyone in that office understood what I was going through, having experienced similar challenges. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to make it this far in my education or embark on my journey in the nursing program,” said Nursing Student Rachelle Rodriguez.
A delicious lunch platter of appetizers and cake covered the counter bordering the planters outside Cafe Verde. Groups congregated at the department, mesmerized by the pristine surroundings as they moseyed around. Inside the conference area, patches from the Silver State and beyond neatly adorned the wall, signifying numerous occupational specialties yet remaining one team, one fight. Behind a glass cabinet in the reception space, artifacts from the Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines, and Army aligned nobly. Medals, cords, and newspapers epitomized the selflessness of our veterans from past eras. Their legacies endure among brothers and sisters in arms.
“To our veterans here today, thank you for your service, sacrifices, and strength. We hope this center will provide hope and protection to everyone for years. Together, we make a difference,” said Gutierrez.
Peace Begins with a Smile
Two international students pose next to the Peace Pole.
Later that afternoon, the community gathered on the grass to introduce the recently installed Rotary Peace Pole in the Dandini Campus plaza, a ceremony hosted by the TMCC President’s Office. As the crunch of foliage beneath footsteps grew nearer, onlookers noticed the black sheet draped over the pillar, the TMCC logo snugly resting on its linen. Upon its reveal, a glacier-white obelisk extended toward the sky, its sides decorated with “May Peace Prevail On Earth” in eight languages, symbolizing unity and hope among cultures. English, Spanish, Japanese, Hindi, and Filipino-speaking students, plus President Hilgersom, vocalized the message in their native tongues, incarnating goodwill in higher education, our world, and each other. Braille, Tagalog, Pyramid Lake Paiute, and German script etched onto the column also invited solidarity. Barriers vanish with welcoming hearts. Our diversity is our cornerstone.
“So happy that we’re here today. [Vice President of Academic Affairs] Dr. Jeffrey Alexander and I are also Rotarians. We love Rotary. It’s a great way to meet service-minded people and friends. The principles are easy. Is it the truth? Is it fair to all considered? Will it build compassion? Does it benefit them? Is it fun? TMCC is honored to be home to a ‘Peace Pole.’ Earlier today, when we celebrated our veterans center, I believe a strong military helps ensure harmony worldwide. We hope for no war or strife because it has wrecked families and societies,” said Hilgersom.
Spectators applauded the volunteers between tree branch shade and crimson-touched leaves. Situated on the wedge facing the Vista Building and E.L. Cord Foundation Child Care Center, you’re encouraged to visit on walks to class. Maybe enjoy a meal on the turf and socialize with peers. It’s a reminder to think, speak, and act interconnectedly. Modern instruction incites us to learn from one another. Fresh perspectives are a catalyst for dispelling ignorance. We commend internationally kindred countries, bound by promises to uplift and empower human consciousness, embracing the oneness of our global family. The monument stands silently vigil.
“Thanks, everyone, for being here, and to our students, especially for contributing their readings today. It’s a big event for us and the College. I think planting this peace pole means a lot, and I hope you will tell others about it, including community members and co-workers. Share the news. We hope peace prevails across TMCC, the country, and the world for many years to come,” said Alexander in a closing address.
For more information, please visit the VFC and President’s Office websites.