MSU to Dedicate Veterans Park Friday as Campus Military Population Grows 21%

BOZEMAN — Montana State University will dedicate its new Veterans Park on Friday, marking a milestone for both the campus and a rapidly growing student population that has increased by 21% in just one year.

The grand opening ceremony, scheduled for 3 to 4 p.m. between Romney Hall and the Strand Union Building, comes as MSU enrolled about 700 students receiving veteran benefits this fall — up from the previous year. For the fifth consecutive year, the university has been recognized as one of the top 10 military-friendly schools in the nation.

“It’s a milestone recognition by the university, honoring the sacrifices made by our veterans and their military-connected family members,” said Todd Bucher, director of MSU’s Travis W. Atkins Veteran Support Center. “This space represents more than a dedication; it’s a place of genuine connection, reflection and belonging for our veterans both on campus and throughout the community.”

The ceremony will feature remarks from MSU President Brock Tessman at 3:30 p.m., followed by a ribbon cutting. Opera Montana’s Veterans Chorus will perform the national anthem and songs from each military branch, while MSU’s ROTC Color Guard will conduct a color guard ceremony.

Veterans Park features two flagpoles flying the American and Montana flags, plus seven stone pillars representing the six U.S. military branches and prisoners of war/missing in action. A stone wall provides space for reflection for veterans, active service members and their families.

The revitalized space replaces what was previously just a flagpole and benches, representing a more prominent tribute as the veteran student population continues to grow. Planning began about two years ago, with funding earmarked in 2019 as part of the broader Grant Street pedestrian mall transformation.

“Our veterans are non-traditional students,” Bucher said. “They’ve served their country, completed deployments and earned their education benefits through years of dedication and sacrifice. Many come to Montana State with a strong sense of purpose, to pursue their education, maximize their benefits and complete their degrees with focus and determination.”

MSU ranked third among Tier 2 research institutions in the Military Friendly Schools survey, which evaluates more than 8,800 institutions nationwide on factors including graduation outcomes, veteran support and retention.

“Yet for them, Veteran Services represents more than just academic support; it’s a home away from home, a place where they find connection, community and belonging,” Bucher said.

The Friday ceremony is open to the public, with closing remarks by MSU Dean of Students Matt Caires.