By Lolita Treadwell
Delaware State University reaffirmed its commitment to those who serve at its Second Annual Military-Affiliated Student Orientation (MASO), welcoming 50 students and family members to campus. The University’s military-affiliated community includes active-duty members, veterans, reservists, National Guard members, military spouses, and dependents. Hosted by the Office of Veterans Affairs, DSU @ Dover Air Force Base, and the Office of Student Success, the orientation offered attendees an opportunity to connect with campus leadership, learn about available resources, and begin building relationships before the semester begins.
The morning opened with a Presentation of the Colors by the Dover Air Force Base Honor Guard, setting a respectful and patriotic tone for the day’s events.
A Message of Belonging
Associate Provost Dr. Fareeda Griffith officially welcomed attendees on behalf of the University. In a heartfelt message, she shared that her mother proudly served for 25 years in the Army Reserve, retiring as a Master Sergeant, a connection that gave her a personal appreciation for the sacrifices made by military families.
Speaking directly to the students, Dr. Griffith offered words that would become one of the defining messages of the day:
“You belong here at Delaware State University. You’re not a guest. You’re not an exception to be managed, but you’re a full member of this academic community with something real to contribute.”
Her remarks emphasized that military-affiliated students are bona fide, card-carrying members of Hornets Nation, not because of what they may accomplish in the future, but because of the experiences, leadership, and perspectives they bring with them today.
A Military Welcome from One of Our Own
The military welcome was delivered by Sergeant First Class Chateedra Othman of the United States Army National Guard, who also shared that she is a proud Delaware State University alumna, Class of 2012. Speaking from the unique perspective of both Soldier and Hornet, she encouraged students to embrace their identities and recognize the influence they have on those around them.
“Be ten toes down about who you are. Who you are and what you do matters. Who you surround yourself with matters. All of your choices matter. And all of you are leaders in here.”
SFC Othman’s message challenged students to lead with authenticity, reminding them that leadership is demonstrated not only in uniform, but also through everyday decisions, academic commitment, and personal character.
A Collaborative Commitment to Student Success
The orientation reflected a collaborative approach to serving military-affiliated students across the University.
The Office of Veterans Affairs and DSU @ Dover Air Force Base operate under the leadership of Dr. Kamesia House, Associate Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management, while the University’s Military & Transfer Student Advisor serves within the Office of Student Success, under the leadership of Dr. Danielle Archambault, Associate Vice President for Student Success. Together, these offices work to ensure military-connected students receive coordinated support from admission through graduation.
Following the welcome, the Military and Veterans Team introduced students to the services available throughout their academic journey.
Lolita “LT” Treadwell, Director of DSU @ Dover Air Force Base, welcomed attendees and introduced the Military and Veterans Team, emphasizing that DSU is committed to serving military-connected students wherever they are, whether on Dover Air Force Base, online, or on the University’s main campus.
Military & Transfer Student Advisor, Amy Kellen, provided an overview of academic advising while sharing strategies for academic success and highlighting the many student support services available throughout the University.
Director of Veterans Affairs, Devon Wilson, presented an in-depth overview of VA education benefits and certification procedures. His presentation generated one of the most engaging discussions of the day, with students asking various questions about eligibility, benefit utilization, and navigating the certification process.
“One of our goals is to remove the uncertainty surrounding VA education benefits. When students understand the process and know someone is here to guide them, they can spend less time worrying about paperwork and more time focusing on earning their degree.”
The extended question-and-answer session that followed reflected both the complexity of veterans’ educational benefits and students’ eagerness to make informed decisions about financing their education.
Campus Resources on Display
Throughout the morning, representatives from across Delaware State University introduced students to the many services designed to support their success, including Financial Aid, Academic Advising, Admissions/Transfer Credits, Career Services, Credit for Prior Learning, Counseling Services, URELAH and other student support offices.
Students also learned about opportunities for involvement through the University’s student organizations, leadership programs, and campus activities, reinforcing the message that military-affiliated students are an integral part of the Hornet community.
Building Community Beyond the Program
Following the formal presentations, attendees gathered for lunch, where students, families, faculty, and staff continued conversations in a relaxed setting. The networking luncheon gave students the chance to ask individual questions, meet campus representatives, and begin forming connections with fellow military-affiliated students.
The day concluded with an optional campus tour led by DSU Student Ambassadors, allowing many first-time visitors to become familiar with classrooms, student spaces, and key campus resources before the semester begins.
Continuing a Tradition of Service
As Delaware State University continues expanding its support for military-affiliated learners, including the return of on-base instruction at Dover Air Force Base, the Military-Affiliated Student Orientation represents an important part of the University’s commitment to those who have served and those who continue to serve.
The recurring messages throughout the day were unmistakable: military students belong at Delaware State University, their service and experiences are valued, and an entire network of faculty and staff stands ready to support their success.
