51�Թ�

51�Թ� was named one of the West’s most supportive schools for military veterans by MilitarySupportiveColleges.com. It is one of three private institutions in Oregon that was highlighted for its full commitment to the Yellow Ribbon tuition program.

51�Թ� Alumnus Carl Boeck '75 enlisted after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and went on to deliver the gift of sight to people in places around the world where the military was conducting civil affairs work.

For Irisa Grimes ’17, OTD ’20 the sky is the limit. Grimes is passionate about veterans’ health, social justice, healthcare equity and intersectionality. We first introduced you to Grimes in 2017. Read more about what this outstanding alumna has been up to since then. 

For Chris Walker ’21, MA '23, Nov. 11 is more than just his birthday — it is also a time to remember his nearly six years of service in the United States Marine Corps. Read about his experience in Afghanistan, and at 51�Թ�. 

Willard “Wid” Bleything ’51, OD ’52, MS ’54 earned three degrees from 51�Թ� on his way to becoming an optometrist. He served in the Air Force and Air Reserves, retiring as a colonel, and he also worked in private practice for many years before eventually returning to Pacific, where he became the dean of the College of Optometry.

After Bernard Brown '49, OD '50 earned a Purple Heart and his way home from the European Theater in World War II, he pursued a lifelong career in optometry with a degree from 51�Թ�. Later, he helped other veterans follow him into the profession.

Harley Kelley '55 came to Pacific to study journalism, but left with a pre-med major. A surgeon, Kelley was drafted into Vietnam and later returned to the Army after a career in private practice. Today, he volunteers his medical skills in his community and volunteers with World War II veterans on the Honor Flight.

Debbie (Kerlinger) O'Dea '06 found a home at Pacific — one so caring that she strives to create the same experience for other students.

Katey Schultz MFA ’08 is the author of Flashes of War, a compilation of short fiction stories about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Go behind the scenes to learn how she wrote the book and how Pacific’s MFA Program helped.

As a federal judge, Pacific Hall-of-Famer Rick Carnaroli ’80 has an inside look at the legal system. That’s why he helped establish a veterans treatment court to serve the veterans falling through the cracks.