November 11, 2024
Roane State Community College held its annual Veterans Day observance on November 11 at the Roane County Campus. Students, college leadership, faculty and staff members, and special guests gathered in the Vann Student Center for the ceremony, which included the presentation of the 2024 Chancellor's Commendation for Military Veterans.
Roane State's recipient of the award was also the ceremony's guest speaker -- U.S. Navy veteran and current student Ayden Havener.
Havener is a wildlife and fisheries major. He served in the U.S. Navy from 2017 until 2021, earning the Navy Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
In a letter written to Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) Chancellor Flora W. Tydings recommending Havener for the commendation, Roane State's director of veterans services said his initiative and strong leadership capabilities have been an incredible asset.
"Ayden has become a vital component of the Department of Veteran Services here at Roane State," Director Lynzee Patrick said. "He has been involved with outreach and mentorship to help other student veterans, all while maintaining a 3.6 GPA. He continues to uphold the values expected of someone who represents Roane State."
Leading the Veterans Day observance, Roane State President Chris Whaley recognized Havener and presented him with the Chancellor's Commendation challenge coin before inviting him to speak at the podium.
"I'm so proud to be a veteran, proud to have served," Havener said in his remarks. "I just want to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart, it means a lot. Thank you for this award."
President Whaley noted that Havener has continued to serve his community and fellow students while pursuing his education.
"We thank Ayden for joining us today, for the words he shared and, most of all, for his service," President Whaley added. "We are so thankful that students like Ayden continue to choose Roane State. We are blessed to have him."
Havener is from Florida but now lives in Wartburg, Tennessee, with his wife Destiny. He plans to graduate with his associate degree this May. Havener said his next step will be Tennessee Tech University where he will continue his studies as a fish conservation major.
The Chancellor’s Commendation for Military Veterans was launched in 2020. Nominees may be a student, member of the faculty and staff, an alumnus of the college or a member of the community who are veterans or active-service members and exemplify characteristics of service, honor, courage, commitment, and integrity.
“Our college communities are strengthened by the veterans and active-duty personnel on campus. The experiences and perspectives they bring are an important part of the broad diversity of people and backgrounds on our campuses that benefits everyone,” Dr. Tydings said. “We are committed wholeheartedly to serving our veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, reserve members, military spouses and children. It’s a privilege to honor them, not only on Veterans Day but all year.”
A total of 40 Chancellor's Commendation recipients were honored across the State of Tennessee this Veterans Day.
For information on Roane State's resources for student veterans, visit the Veterans Services Office webpage.
Roane State Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity or national origin, sex, disability, age, status as protected veteran or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulation and by Tennessee board of Regents policies with respect to employment, programs, and activities. View full non-discrimination policy.
