Sherrod Library News

Honoring Veterans in the Sherrod Library

On November 10, 2025 The Sherrod Library honored eleven ETSU affiliated veterans for their service with a handmade quilt

In the library, most things are born of a highly collaborative effort. The Veteran's Day Quilts of Valor Event was no different. While the original idea to invite the Quilts of Valor organization was provided by Rebecca Tolley, Academic Research Services Director, it was Government Documents, Law and Maps Specialist, Paul Nease who carried the idea to fruition from its spring inception, to fall implementation. Nease, with the assistance of Dan Bishop, and Jason Wilder, Director and Assistant Director of Military and Veterans Services, respectively, connected with eleven regional veterans who had been touched by war. Together with Assistant Dean, Blair Jones, the logistics for their arrival and ceremony was coordinated and the Southern Chapter of Quilts of Valor prepared eleven quilts for the selected honorees. On the day of, many in the library devoted their time and energy towards making the honorees feel welcomed, and to ensure the event went smoothly. After remarks, the quilting ceremony commenced, a moving program which touched the hearts of many of the family and friends in attendance.

Audience members watch the quilting ceremony

With the implementation of a new strategic plan in July, Sherrod employees collectively have sought to enact our strategic mission of fostering academic excellence and community engagement through access to collections, spaces, and technologies. It is through these collaborative and innovative efforts that we not only meet our goals, but uplift the community that we reside in, honoring those who served our region, and country.