Clarkson University president Tony Collins, left, opened the recent Veterans Appreciation Day ceremony with, from left retired Col. William R. Murphy, Rev. Msgr. Robert A. Aucoin, Deputy Cmdr. 412th Theater Engineer Command Brigadier Gen. Miyako Schanely, Crane School of Music voice assistant professor Jonathan Stinson and retired U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Robert Henninger.

POTSDAM -- Clarkson University is signing on to the “8 Keys to Veterans’ Success” to support the post-secondary success of those who have served in the nation’s armed forces and service members.

As part of the recent Veterans Appreciation Day, school president Tony Collins announced they were joining the voluntary initiative of the U.S. Department of Education.

The "8 Keys" guidelines for post-secondary institutions to assist service members and those who have served in the armed forces in transitioning to higher education, completing college programs, obtaining career-ready skills, and achieving success.

"Through our commitment to the '8 Keys to Veterans’ Success' as well as other programs, it is our honor and opportunity to show our gratitude to the men and women who ensure our freedoms and liberties every day,” Collins said.

Saturday's Veterans Appreciation Day event at Clarkson paid special tribute to veterans of the Vietnam War, but all veterans and the general public also joined in the activities, including a Vietnam Veterans Recognition Ceremony with a color guard and Prisoner of War/Missing in Action presentation. Entertainment, refreshments and services for veterans were also provided.