Veterans can Connect, Unwind and Build Community with Fellow Service Members

DAVIE, Fla.  – Broward College marked a milestone in its commitment to student veterans with the grand opening of its first Broward College Veterans’ Lounge. A ribbon-cutting ceremony held April 17 commemorated the occasion, bringing together College officials, students, faculty and staff with donors who are supporting the lounge.

“It’s a great day for Broward College, a great day for our Central Campus, and most importantly, a great day for our veterans,” said Torey Alston, Broward College President and CEO. “This is a place where our veterans can meet, study, connect, and build the best of each other. It’s part of our vision to make Broward College not only the number one destination for academic excellence, but also a place where student life thrives for all students, including those who’ve served our country.”

The donors who are supporting the Veterans’ Lounge include: Spirit Airlines: John Bendoraitis, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer; and Lanie Morgenstern, Spirit Charitable Foundation and Director of International Stations; Moss Family Office (MFO): Michelle Daniels, National Communications Manager of Moss & Associates; Tyler Norman, President and CEO of Aero Engine Solutions.  

The new and welcoming lounge was made possible through a $50,000 philanthropic contribution from the Spirit Airlines Charitable Foundation. The gift supported the transformation of a former men's baseball locker room into a dedicated space where veterans can connect, unwind and build community with fellow service members.

“It’s not just a place to relax. It is a place of respect, a place of support, and a place of community,” said Bendoraitis. “To all the veterans who are here today, and for those who are yet to come but will visit the lounge, I want to thank you for your service. We walk with you today and always.”

The lounge will serve more than 400 veteran students currently enrolled at Broward College, providing a central hub that complements the institution’s broader efforts to create a veteran-friendly campus environment. This new area supports the College’s goal of ensuring that veterans feel seen, supported, and valued from recruitment through graduation.

“Thank you to the veterans who’ve made the decision to return to college,” said Norman. “It’s not always easy to find your path after service, and this space helps create a support system. We’re grateful to be a part of it.”

Additional support for the Veterans’ Lounge came from The Moss Foundation and Aero Engine Solutions.

“On behalf of Moss Construction, The Moss Family Office, and The Moss Foundation, we’re proud to see this dream become a reality,” said Daniels. “Supporting veterans, first responders, and education is at the core of our mission, and this project aligned perfectly with that.”

A donor recognition plaque was unveiled during the ceremony and will remain on permanent display inside the lounge. It reads:

This lounge was made possible by the donation of the Spirit Charitable Foundation, The Moss Foundation, and Aero Engine Solutions. Broward College honors your service, your sacrifice, and your contributions both in and out of the classroom. We are proud to stand with you as you pursue your goals and shape a brighter future for yourself, your family, and our community.

The student veteran community also played an integral role in the day’s celebration.

“Coming back to school after the service can be stressful,” said Isiah Williams, a Navy veteran studying cybersecurity. “Having a lounge where we can come to relax and reset before class means a lot. I want to thank the donors and Broward College for giving us this space.”

Williams also recognized fellow veterans:

• Brandon King, Marine Corps veteran, studying cybersecurity
• Isaura Rios Lopez, Marine Corps veteran, studying business administration
• John Rivera, Army veteran, studying music technology

Army veteran and Broward College alumna Rahjanni S. Iusi, MSW, RCSWI, also shared her perspective.

“As an Army veteran and proud alumna, I experienced firsthand how vital having a strong community and connection are for veterans at Broward College,” said Iusi. “The new Veterans’ Lounge isn’t just a space; it’s a central hub for support, encouragement, and belonging, where every veteran can find resources and community. I encourage all Broward College veterans to make this lounge their own: use it to connect, share experiences, and continue building on your legacy of service. Together, let’s support each other and inspire one another to reach new heights in our academic and personal journeys.”

The lounge further Broward College’s commitment to fostering an inclusive campus culture and providing comprehensive services to military-connected students.

“Broward College is designated a Military Friendly® Institution, which demonstrates our ongoing support for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families,” said Jim DeChant, Acting Vice President of Advancement and Executive Director of Broward College Foundation.

The Veterans’ Lounge is open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Building 10, Room 115 at the A. Hugh Adams Central Campus in Davie. It features several amenities, including a TV and gaming system, a fridge, coffee and snacks station, a study area with computers and a printer, lounge seating, table games, and more.

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