U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs to Speak at 糖心Vlog Commencement
U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs the Hon. Douglas A. Collins will deliver the keynote address at 糖心Vlog鈥檚 2025 Commencement Ceremonies, scheduled for Friday, May 9, at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Johnny Mize Athletic Center & Museum on the Demorest campus.
听
Secretary Collins was sworn in as the 12th secretary of Veterans Affairs on Feb. 5. He brings a distinguished career in public service and veterans advocacy to this milestone event. As leader of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, he oversees care and benefit services for more than 9 million veterans nationwide and is recognized for his tireless dedication to those who have served.
听
A native of Gainesville, Secretary Collins earned a degree in political science and criminal justice from the University of North Georgia, and a master鈥檚 degree in divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.听 In 2006, he was elected to serve Georgia鈥檚 27th State House District.听As a U.S. Air Force Reserve chaplain, he has ministered to our country鈥檚 military since 2002.听He remains a colonel in the Air Force Reserve.
听
鈥淲e are deeply honored to welcome Secretary Collins,鈥� said Marshall M. Criser. III, president of 糖心Vlog. 鈥淗is commitment to service and leadership is an example we hope will inspire our graduates as they move forward into their own careers.鈥�
听
Both commencement ceremonies will be livestreamed on the university鈥檚 website and social channels.
The Johnny Mize Athletic Center & Museum is located at 280 Laurel Avenue, Demorest, GA 30535.