KENNESAW, Ga. | Oct 24, 2025

Kennesaw State honors its deployed military and veteran students with inspiring stories and campus support on National Day of the Deployed.

Kennesaw State recognizes the National Day of the Deployed on October 26th, a day dedicated to honoring the active-duty students, faculty, and staff deployed in service to the U.S military by sharing their stories and resources with the KSU community. 

Kennesaw State University is one of the institutions that emphasizes the importance of this recognition, further underscored by its designation as a top 10, gold-level Military Friendly and Military Spouse Friendly school, and with the help of the Department of Military and Veteran Services (MVS).

The university honors many students and professors for their service, regardless of whether they are on active duty, in the reserves, or veterans. Balancing academic responsibilities with military service can be challenging, as it requires managing multiple deadlines and assignments. 

Tony Ballard is a PhD candidate in Business Administration at Kennesaw State. He recounted his experience managing military tasks while in the U.S. Air Force. Ballard was deployed both as an undergraduate and during his graduate program. 

"The first time I was in Afghanistan was a moment of reflection for me," Ballard said. "I had to attend classes during indirect fire attacks. It was stressful, but I was able to overcome it by relying on my inner circle and the guidance of my mentors."

Johnathan Arnold, an Electrical Engineering major at Kennesaw State and an MVS employee, shared his tips for fellow active-duty students and the resources available on campus. Arnold aims to graduate in 2027 and plans to leverage his Air Force experience to further his studies.

"Facing deployment can be daunting," Arnold said. "Talk to those around you. Connect with veterans here at school. You can always reach out to Military and Veteran Services."

Mike Saint-Fleur, a senior majoring in Cybersecurity and serving in the United States Marine Corps, also discussed balancing his military duties with academic studies. Saint-Fleur has been a part of the Marine Corps for about ten years, showcasing his dedication and commitment. He aims to serve and fulfill his responsibilities to both his community and the country. He currently assists students visiting the MVS offices. 

"Communicate as early as possible with your professors," Saint-Fleur said. "Two weeks before my final exam, I had to leave for deployment, and my professor accommodated me by allowing me to take my final exam ahead of time." 

The National Day of the Deployed was first observed in North Dakota when Shelle Michaels Aberle, a civilian, proposed the idea to Governor John Hoeven to honor her cousin, Lieutenant Colonel Honsa. The day was officially recognized in 2006 and has been celebrated annually on October 26th since then. It's a common tradition to acknowledge the service of our military veterans, whether it's walking up to a person in uniform to thank them or using social media with the hashtag #DayOfTheDeployed.

Kennesaw State University provides a range of resources for current and former military personnel. The primary objective of the Department of Military and Veteran Services is to create an easily accessible resource hub for service members, veterans, and their dependents as they pursue their academic goals. 

MVS provides continuing education programs designed to be flexible, accessible, and career-focused, accommodating their busy lives while balancing academic and professional responsibilities. Additionally, KSU offers Green Zone Training for faculty and staff, Counseling and Psychological Services with a 24/7 help line, and various events hosted by the department celebrating their achievements. These events can be beneficial for individuals, creating a sense of unity, acknowledging their bravery and service, and providing a fulfilling connection with other members in the military community.

For more information or to get involved with Military and Veteran Services, please visit the MVS website.

-Story by Allison Cannon and Meghan Cooper

-Photos by Meghan Cooper and provided by participants.