Honoring Service and Sacrifice at the 17th Annual Student Veterans of America National Conference

For 3 years, wear blue: run to remember has partnered with the Student Veterans of America (SVA) National Conference to host a powerful Circle of Remembrance and run. This year’s NatCon was hosted at the iconic Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs. As the sun set over the lake, nearly 180 conference attendees gathered to honor the service and sacrifice of our nation’s military.

“I chose to participate in the wear blue Remembrance Run because I have experienced the loss of family and friends during their service to our country. It was a humbling and incredible experience to see the face of the person I lost among the others along the trail of the run, and it felt comforting that he was in the company of other American heroes who gave the ultimate sacrifice. The Circle of Remembrance was such a moving event and reminded me that although so many of us have lost someone, that we were all there together to remember those who have lost but also supporting each other in continuing the good fight. That connection and community that we were all able to share, while being vulnerable in the pain of our losses and remembering our friends is something that I will not soon forget. “

- Nikki Gold, Oregon State University, Chapter Vice President

The energy and commitment were palpable. Of the 180 participants, 139 chose to step forward and speak the name of a fallen hero, with more than 250 names remembered aloud. The collective dedication to active remembrance made this event truly special—a shared moment of connection and purpose that rippled through the crowd.

“From the Circle of Remembrance to the Remembrance Run, wear blue: run to remember brings together such a powerful piece to Student Veterans of America’s National Conference. The Circle of Remembrance gives voice to the names of the fallen, while the run transforms every step into a tribute, a moment to honor and remember those who gave everything.”

-Mackenzie Marion, Student Veterans of America, Program Coordinator

Moments of connection and reflection defined the experience. A retired General shared heartfelt memories of the 61 soldiers he lost during six deployments over his 34 years of service. His emotions were a poignant reminder of the importance of honoring those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice. A Dean of Students spoke about his vision for connecting his cadets with wear blue’s mission, ensuring they understand the profound sacrifices that enable their opportunities today.

wear blue Community Leader, James Soldner led the Circle of Remembrance at the SVA NatCon Remembrance Run.

Before the Circle of Remembrance began, a guest at The Broadmoor who wasn’t associated with the SVA conference approached a member of the wear blue team. He had written names on a bib and requested that the names be run for and remembered since he could not attend the event himself. Permission was granted to say the names aloud during the Circle of Remembrance. After the ceremony, an SVA attendee asked how the names on the bib were known. Upon hearing the story of the guest’s request, the attendee shared that one of the names on the bib belonged to a close friend he had attended military school with. Gratitude was expressed for including the friend’s name in the remembrance, and the two shared memories of those they were honoring.

Another SVA attendee recognized a name on one of the posters along the run route, even though it wasn’t specifically requested.

These moments highlight the interconnectedness of the military, veterans, families, and friends. By actively honoring and remembering loved ones, bonds within communities are strengthened. Recognizing how many lives are impacted by each individual being honored fosters deeper connections and relationships.

"Participating in the wear blue Remembrance Run at NatCon and the Circle of Remembrance was deeply meaningful to me. I ran to honor those who sacrificed so much for the freedoms we have today. For me, it’s a chance to reflect on the impact they made, not only on my life but on all of us. I believe we’re a community, a family, and I want to do my part in keeping their legacies alive. When I run, I think about the person I’m running for, and in that moment, I feel a connection to their sacrifice and to the values they stood for. It’s a reminder to always treat others with the same respect I’d want for myself and my family. It also gives me a moment to pray for their families, for those they loved, and for the lives they touched. Being a part of this isn’t just about remembrance; it’s about healing, about carrying their spirit forward, and about ensuring they’re never forgotten. It fills me with pride and gratitude, knowing I’m honoring them in this way."

- Cherise Valez, Forsyth Technical Community College, Chapter Advisor 

The wear blue Circle of Remembrance and run at the SVA National Conference was more than an event—it was a shared commitment to honor, remember, and inspire. Together, the participants demonstrated the strength of remembrance, the power of community, and the enduring impact of those who are run to honor.

“This is my second NATCON, and wear blue had events at each. They were both compelling. I appreciate the ability to either submit a poster for those we want to honor, or the ability to write them down if you couldn't get one submitted. Seeing one of my fallen brothers after I submitted his information made it possible for his story to be heard. I also appreciated how the posters were moved to the front of the expo entrance so that others could see them after the event. It is an honorable thing you are doing, and I encourage you to keep it up! Very well done!”

- Landon Waters, University of Tulsa, Chapter Secretary

If your Student Veterans chapter is looking to get involved with wear blue: run to remember, explore a local community near you or join us in one of our Honor Events to make a meaningful impact.

About Student Veterans of America: Student Veterans of America (SVA) is the premier organization leading service, research, programs, and advocacy for veterans in higher education. Through a network of nearly 1,600 on-campus chapters, SVA ensures that student veterans and military-connected students achieve their greatest potential.

Join SVA for the 18th Annual NatCon, happening January 8–10 in Colorado Springs, CO. Registration details will be available in April!