Leaders from Midwestern State University, Sheppard Air Force Base, the Wichita Falls community, and the Texas Tech University System celebrated the opening of the Student Success and Military Education Center at the Bridwell Activities Center on April 29. 

While celebrating this significant investment in the future of the university and SAFB, leaders took time to praise the results of great teamwork from the two entities and the tremendous generosity of local foundations and individuals. The support from donors and community leaders made it possible for the transformation of the second floor from unused open space into a central support hub for all students. Those early commitments to the project also prompted the Texas Legislature to approve special-item funding to complete the centers. 

“What we’re opening today is obviously more than a building; it’s a strong commitment,” TTUS Chancellor Brandon Creighton said. “It’s a commitment that every student who walks onto this campus has the support and the tools and resources and guidance to finish strong and step into a career with real opportunity.”  

Creighton said the MEC is very meaningful, noting Texas leads the nation in supporting veterans and service members. This initiative will bolster support for Sheppard Air Force Base and provide invaluable assistance to active-duty military personnel and families as they advance their careers.  

Brig. Gen. Paul Filcek, Commander of the 82nd Training Wing and Installation Commander, said there are about 14,000 graduates of tech training per year, and those average serving for 11.2 years, which means 145,000 years of service are produced at SAFB every single year. He’s pleased that with this project, many of those service members and their families will have a chance to further their education at a place that cares about them.