On Thursday, April 20th, two secondary education institutions in the Chattahoochee Valley area, Columbus Technical College and Columbus State University organized a joint Luncheon and Career Fair at the National Infantry Museum for active and veteran military spouses from neighboring Fort Benning families. This event offered a valuable opportunity for potential students to gain insight into the diverse educational and community-centric benefits available throughout Columbus proper.

This candid and up-close look into the myriad of programs of study available and how to tap into military benefits to enhance feasibility was specifically designed to help potential military students feel more inclined towards considering advancing their careers by pursuing an education.

Fort Benning reports indicate that more than 114,000 Soldiers come through Columbus each year.

“This level of exposure to multiple possibilities sets a benchmark for how we want to serve our growing military community going forward. Columbus Tech wants to create the kind of opportunities that change lives and futures for the families who sacrifice daily for our personal freedoms,” Martha Ann Todd, President of Columbus Technical College, said.

Attendees also had the privilege of sharing information with vendors who can possibly help make their time in the city more beneficial in the long run.

Among some of the vendors in attendance, showcasing resources for military personnel were:

• Army Community Service Fort Benning

• Cusseta Chattahoochee County

• Fort Benning Education Center

• Fort Benning MWR

• Fort Benning Stray Facility

• Humana

• Muscogee County School District

• Russell County School District

• Still Serving Veterans

• United Way of Chattahoochee Valley

• Visit Columbus

The Spencer High School Chorale Ensemble performed the National Anthem to kick off the festivities. Attendees also experienced a welcome luncheon and took advantage of a Question and Answers (Q&A) session as well as curated photo opportunities.