Copyright Staten Island Advance
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Wagner College will honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces at its 15th Annual Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony next month, featuring a decorated alumnus as keynote speaker. The ceremony will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Delta Nu Memorial, located directly outside of Spiro Sports Center. The event, hosted in conjunction with alumni of the Delta Nu Fraternity, will include a light breakfast. This year’s keynote speaker is Fredrick Williamson, a 1964 Wagner College graduate and Vietnam veteran who received two Silver Stars for “conspicuous gallantry” and “bravery in action,” as well as a Purple Heart for wounds received in battle. “Veterans Day reminds us to take a moment and pause to recognize the extraordinary service and sacrifice of those who have worn our nation’s uniform,” said Jenny Kelly, director of Alumni & Development Events and a 2013 Wagner graduate. “Having Fred Williamson — one of our own alumni and a decorated Vietnam veteran — join us as keynote speaker makes this year’s remembrance especially meaningful. His courage, leadership, and continued commitment to service, and to Wagner College, embody the values we strive to uphold as members of this community.” Williamson has maintained strong ties with Wagner since his graduation. The Middletown, N.J., native was a three-year football letter winner and captain of the 1963 team, while also competing on the Track & Field team. Following graduation, he served a 13-month tour in Vietnam, attaining the rank of captain, Rifle Company. For more than two decades, Williamson served as a Wagner Board of Trustee member, including time as treasurer and chair of the Athletics Committee. From 1990 to 1996, he headed the National Alumni Association. In recognition of his contributions, Williamson received an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Wagner in 2011. The Veterans Day ceremony has become a tradition at Wagner, bringing together students, alumni, faculty, and community members for reflection and gratitude. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Jenny Kelly at j.kelly@wagner.edu.
