Events

UF Military Connections Welcome

Our annual welcome event is a student-led initiative that greets new veterans and military-connected students with an introduction to campus resources and a connection with peers.

  • Date to be Determined for the Online Student Welcome | Via Zoom |More information to follow soon!
  • Date to be Determined for the Student Welcome/Open House | More information to follow soon!

Veterans Resource Fair

We are excited to announce that we will be hosting our Veterans Resource Fair on Thursday, October 1st, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the UF Reitz Union Rion Ballroom. This event brings together UF students, faculty, staff, veterans, service members, and military-connected individuals to explore the resources, support services, and opportunities available throughout the Gainesville community.

This event provides an opportunity to:

  • Build meaningful relationships with Gainesville and UF veteran community resources
  • Connect directly with veteran and military-connected students and community members

Annual Veterans Reception

This special event is dedicated to honoring the dedication, sacrifice, and service of our veteran and military-connected students at the University of Florida. It's a time to come together as a community to express our deepest appreciation for their commitment to our country and their pursuit of higher education. Save the Date for Friday, November 13, 2026.  

Saluting Those Who Serve

The "Saluting Those Who Serve" Football Game is an annual event hosted by the University of Florida Athletics Department to honor and show appreciation for members of the military, veterans, and first responders. The game typically features special pre-game ceremonies, tributes throughout the game, and recognition of individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to serving the community and the nation. It serves as a platform to express gratitude for the sacrifices made by these individuals and to celebrate their service and dedication. The event also often includes fundraising efforts and partnerships with charitable organizations that support veterans and active-duty military personnel. This event will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2026 against University of Oklahoma.  Stay tuned for more details.

Family Events

Stars & Strikes: Purple Star Family Bowling Event. This is a family friendly event held at the Reitz Union Game Room Bowling Alley during the Fall and Spring Semesters.  The event is free for veteran and military-connected students and their families and provides an opportunity to build community, strengthen connections, and engage with other military-connected families in a welcoming and supportive environment.  Participants enjoy bowling, games and time together while learning more about campus resources and opportunities available through the Collegiate Veterans Success  Center and Campus Partners. Save the date for Saturday, November 14, 2026

Military Branch Birthday Celebrations

Stop by the CVSC to celebrate the birthdays of all six military branches. Have a cupcake, learn about our military, and compete in trivia.

  • U.S. Army: June 14
  • U.S. Coast Guard: August 4
  • U.S. Air Force: September 18
  • U.S. Navy: October 13
  • U.S. Marine Corps: November 10
  • U.S. Space Force: December 20

Employer Info Sessions

In collaboration with the Career Connections Center, The Collegiate Veteran Success Center helps connect veteran and military-connected students with employer information sessions and campus recruiting opportunities.

As employers schedule visits to the University of Florida, veteran and military-connected students may be invited to attend sessions designed to share information about career pathways, internships, full-time employment, and organizations seeking the skills and experiences that veterans and military-connected student bring.

These sessions provide an opportunity to:

  • Learn about current and future job opportunities
  • Connect directly with recruiters and employer representatives
  • Explore career fields that value military experience, leadership, teamwork, and service
  • Ask questions about hiring timelines, application processes, and workplace culture
  • Build professional networks before graduation

Students are encouraged to monitor CVSC communications, the monthly SITREP newsletter, and Career Connections Center announcements for upcoming employer visits and registration details. 

Painting with Veterans

In collaboration with campus and community partners, a free painting workshop is offered to bring together veterans and military-connected students with local veterans in a creative and supportive environment.  Participants may choose to keep their artwork or donate their completed pieces to local veteran organizations, including the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center.

Workshop dates and registration information will be announced through the CVSC SITREP newsletter and Gators for Good.