Full Sail Stories

To celebrate Full Sail University’s veteran and military-connected community, the Military Student Success Center hosted its annual Veterans Day 5K and Veteran Thanksgiving Dinner on campus. Not only did these events show appreciation to the military community, they provided opportunities for people to connect, build relationships, and just have fun.

Bright and early on November 11, participants met up at the Full Sail Live venue’s archway to start the Veterans Day 5K: Ruck, Run, Walk race that continued around campus. Medals were awarded to the top three finishers in each category – running, walking, and rucking – as well as groups of up to four members who completed the race together. All participants received dog tags upon finishing the race, and refreshments were available during and after the event to help competitors stay hydrated.

On November 19 in the Full Sail Live venue, the Military Student Success team held their 15th annual Veteran Thanksgiving Dinner. The catered event served more than 250 students and their families, and featured karaoke, physical challenges, and raffle prizes.

“The Veteran Thanksgiving Dinner is my favorite event that we do each year,” said Drew Bailey, Veteran Student Liaison and Navy Veteran. “It is our opportunity to give back to the [military-connected] students and their families. Our team is rewarded each year by the looks on the student’s faces when they enter the event and throughout the night. It is a reminder for why we are here and how important our students are. And we get to eat delicious barbeque!”