Dear Members of the Monmouth University Community:
Each year on November 11, we pause as a nation to honor those who have served in the armed forces of the United States. Their service, on land, at sea, and in the air, whether in battle or in quiet posts across the world, has protected the freedoms that define our democracy and the principles that bind us together.
At Monmouth University, we are privileged to count veterans and military-connected students, faculty, staff, and alumni among our community. Their example reminds us that leadership emerges through service, and that service can take many forms. For some veterans, service extends beyond the uniform trough teaching, mentoring, or volunteering to strengthen the institutions that sustain our shared freedoms.
Among those freedoms are the right to think independently, to speak openly, and to learn without fear—values that form the foundation of higher education and that generations of service members have fought to protect. In defending the Constitution, they have safeguarded not only our borders but also the intellectual freedom that gives meaning to university life.
This Veterans Day, we recognize that the responsibility to uphold those freedoms belongs to all of us. The courage and commitment of our veterans challenge us to engage fully as citizens—to listen generously, to seek understanding, and to contribute to the common good.
I encourage you to attend our Veterans Day celebration today at 11:00 a.m. in the Pompeii Room, Great Hall to recognize the extraordinary contributions of military service members within our campus community.
To every veteran and military family in the Monmouth community, thank you. Your service strengthens this country, and your continued presence enriches this university.
Sincerely,
Dr. Patrick F. Leahy
President