U.S. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis speaks with UTSA veterans
(Nov. 14, 2012) -- The University of Texas at San Antonio hosted U.S. Department of Labor Secretary, Hilda L. Solis at the "Young Veterans Forum: Training for the Future" on Wednesday, Oct. 24 at the UTSA Downtown Campus. The conversation centered on veteran's education and training.
Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff introduced Solis, who discussed how the U.S. Department of Labor assists veterans making the transition from the military to educational or vocational programs and employment. She also answered questions from student veterans on topics such as the difficulty veterans with disabilities have gaining employment, transition assistance programs and in-demand job industries.
The Department of Labor is a strong supporter that helps veterans go from military service to the civilian labor force. Throughout her career, Solis has been a champion of education and training programs for veterans.
"Helping to provide the skills and training that our vets need to succeed when they come home has been one of the most rewarding parts of this job," said Solis.
"We were honored to have Secretary Solis take the time to visit with our student veterans here in San Antonio and provide her insight," said Lisa Firmin, UTSA associate provost for faculty and student diversity and recruitment. Her office organized the secretary's visit.
According to Firmin, UTSA is working hard to serve its large population of student veterans. UTSA certifies more veterans and family members than any other four-year public or private university in Texas. Currently, more than 2,500 UTSA students are using VA educational benefits or Hazelwood benefits to help them through school. Nearly 40 percent of those students are women, and 42.6 percent are Hispanic.
Solis is one of only two presidential cabinet members to visit UTSA in recent years. Last spring, Gabriela Lemus, her senior advisor, visited UTSA to meet with student veterans. Kathleen Sebelius, U.S. secretary of health and human services, was the keynote speaker at a UTSA graduation ceremony in May 2011.
Events
This event will acknowledge graduating seniors from the McNair Scholars program at UTSA before inducting the new cohort of scholars into the program.
North Paseo Building (NPB 5.140), Main CampusAt this memorable celebration, UTSA graduates will be introduced one-by-one to cross the stage and accept their doctoral degrees.
Arts Building Recital Hall, Main CampusRoadrunner Walk is an event for graduating students to have a memorable walk on campus to celebrate an important milestone and their achievements. Graduates will walk along the Paseo while being celebrated by the UTSA community, friends, and family members.
Student Union Paseo, Main CampusCelebrate the accomplishments of College of Education and Human Development, College for Health, Community and Policy, College of Sciences and University College.
Alamodome, 100 Montana St.Celebrate the accomplishments of Alvarez College of Business, College of Liberal and Fine Arts and Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design.
Alamodome, 100 Montana St.