CFCC Surf City holds Veterans Center grand opening, open house

SURF CITY, NC (WWAY) —   The Cape Fear Community College Surf City Center had a community open house for the Veterans Center grand opening Monday.

A classroom at the Surf City location was turned into the Veterans Center for students who have served in the military and their families.

Darren Allison, coordinator of veteran affairs, said the center will be a place for veterans to study, find educational and financial resources, and gather together.

“It’s a place they can have comradery, kind of share ideas, and work, and talk together, and give them that comfort as they transition into that academic environment,” said Allison.

Allison, who served in the Marines himself, said it’s important to have this kind of space for veterans.

“The reality of it is a lot of people have given me a lot of things,” said Allison. “A lot of veterans that have retired helped me out a lot when I transitioned out.”

CFCC President Amanda Lee said they have veterans centers at their other sites. She said they saw a growing need in Pender County.

“This is a huge resource to have for our veterans,” said Lee. “About ten percent of our population of our students are veterans and we are expecting that to grow particularly now that we have the center in Pender County.”

The grand opening included a ribbon cutting and flag dedication.