Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

St. John’s University hosted its annual Veterans Day Luncheon on November 7, celebrating veterans and active military members from various branches, including the US Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Navy. The event took place in the D’Angelo Center ballroom on the Queens campus.

The ceremony recognized not only those who served but also their families. Jason G. Loughran ’14CPS of the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services emphasized this by stating, “Support people are the most important people you can have in your lives...we say thank you because we can’t go through this alone.”

Among attendees were Kian Paolo Anilao and Christian Brito, both first-year students at St. John’s Lesley H. and William L. Collins College of Professional Studies. The two met during Army basic training in 2019 and reconnected unexpectedly at a seminar earlier this year.

“You never really know if you are going to see anyone again,” said Christian Brito about their reunion at St. John’s.

James A. Croft, Esq., a Marine Corps veteran and Assistant Professor at St. John's Division of Legal Studies, spoke highly of veterans' character and leadership skills cultivated by programs like the Red Storm Battalion.

Joseph Sciame ’71Ed highlighted the importance of supporting student veterans: “It is essential that we appreciate, celebrate and assist our student veterans.”

Chris Sosa from Austin, TX shared his experience transitioning to civilian life after a 21-year Navy career: “I gained a new kinship with my fellow veterans...and found my calling to give back to the community that knows me best.” Sosa is now pursuing a master’s degree in Government and Politics at St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Karen Moritz Simons described how the Veterans Success Center serves as an "oasis" for student veterans seeking support for education or personal matters: “The center helps veterans smoothly transition into civilian life after serving.”

The luncheon underscored St. John's commitment to its veteran community through educational opportunities and support services aligned with its Vincentian mission.