Penn State Schuylkill will honor local veterans and active-duty service members during its annual Veterans Day Ceremony, scheduled for 9 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 10, at the Schuylkill County Vietnam Veterans Memorial, located adjacent to the campus.
The program will feature remarks, poetry, and tributes from both students and community members, reflecting the university’s ongoing commitment to honoring those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Among those participating will be Jeremiah Miller, a third-year business major from Boston, Massachusetts, who served seven years in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Sergeant Aviation Operations Specialist.
Miller’s decision to enlist stemmed from a personal desire for change and growth.
“I joined the military because I wanted to change who I was as an individual,” Miller said. “I knew the military would give me structure, discipline, and confidence—and it did.”
During his service, Miller was stationed across the U.S. and abroad, including tours in Turkey and Indonesia, where he worked as a Marine Security Guard at U.S. embassies.
“Being overseas was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life,” he shared. “It taught me how to adapt, communicate, and navigate cultures very different from my own.”
Miller credits the Marine Corps with helping him build the leadership and communication skills he now applies both academically and athletically at Penn State Schuylkill.
Following his military service, Miller pursued his dream of higher education and athletics. His search led him to Penn State Schuylkill, where he joined the men’s basketball team under Coach Travis Williams.
“I didn’t even visit the campus when I committed,” Miller said with a laugh. “Coach Williams gave me such a genuine vibe that I knew it was the right choice.”
In addition to basketball, Miller works as a student assistant in the athletics department and hosts “The Lion’s Den with Jeremiah Miller,” a social media series highlighting student-athletes. He also collaborates with Devoir LA, a streetwear brand founded by his roommate, serving as a founding partner and strategist.
For Miller, Veterans Day carries deep personal meaning.
“Being a veteran is a big part of who I am,” he said. “It’s a time to give thanks to those who served before me—and to remember those who didn’t make it home.”
He hopes the day serves as a reminder that every role in the military matters: “No matter what branch you serve or where life takes you, the brotherhood and sisterhood of the military never leave you. It’s a tough world, but sometimes you have to be tougher — and you’re never alone in that fight. OORAH!”
Lisa Cecchini, financial aid and veterans benefits coordinator at Penn State Schuylkill, organizes the annual event.
“This ceremony is one of the most meaningful traditions on our campus,” Cecchini said. “It’s a time for students, faculty, and community members to come together to honor those who have served our country.”
Campus registrar Mike Verhagen, a U.S. Army veteran, will also offer remarks, emphasizing the importance of reflection and gratitude:
“It’s important that younger generations understand the impact and meaning behind service,” Verhagen said.
The program will include a poetry reading by first-year student Allie Benulis, an elementary education major, who will recite “Soldier from the Wars Returning.”
Additional participants include Schuylkill Haven Area High School students T.J. Adams and Faith Krammes, the Pine Grove Area High School Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, and members of Schuylkill Haven American Legion Post 38 and Veterans of Vietnam.
Open to the Public
The ceremony is open to the public, and all are invited to attend to honor local veterans and service members.
Penn State Schuylkill encourages community members to join in this day of remembrance and gratitude — a celebration of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of those who have served.