CHAMPION TWP., Ohio - Kent State University plans a grand opening Monday of a Military and Veteran Resource Center at its Trumbull County campus.

An Honor Guard and U.S. Congressman Bill Johnson are scheduled to be on hand for the event at 1:30 p.m.

The center, dubbed “At Ease”, will offer military and veteran students a place on campus to not only relax, but also access information on the G.I. Bill, campus mental health counseling, community relations, financial aid, and other resources.

One of the moving forces behind the resource center is Lori Singer-Bare, who served more than 13 years in the United States Army as a military police officer, drill sergeant, platoon sergeant, and operations sergeant.

"We wanted to create a space for our military and veteran students," Singer-Bare said. "We are so grateful to our military and veteran students, staff and faculty. This is another way we can thank and honor those who are serving or have served this great nation."

Singer-Bare is a Criminology and Justice Studies lecturer; instructor, at the Peace Officer Training Academy; and program coordinator for the College of Applied and Technical Studies Criminology and Justice Studies A.A.S. Program.

Others behind the center’s vision are Maribeth Eckenrode, a Regional Campus Financial Aid Representative; Barb Ozimek, a Counseling Specialist and adjunct faculty; and Karen Ronga, the Gelbke Library Director.

 Eckenrode is a military spouse. Ozimek has served the veteran community with mental health services and has numerous family members who have served in the Armed Forces.

The "At Ease" Military & Veteran Resource Center is in Room 180G in the Gelbke Library.