Veterans Day Breakfast
Save the Date
RIT's 15th Annual Veterans Day Breakfast
Friday, November 13th 2026
8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
RIT Gordon Fieldhouse
Held around Veterans Day each November, it is free and open to the entire community. It is our “salute” to veterans and their families, our way of saying thank you for your service, thank you for your sacrifice.
Keynote Speaker
Appointed in December 2021, Viviana DeCohen became the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services.
A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Viviana DeCohen previously served as the Commissioner of the Mount Vernon Veterans Service Agency, and Associate Pastor at Mt. Vernon Heights Congregational Church.
She has dedicated her time and talent to assisting veterans, ensuring food, shelter, clothing, education, employment, and a little motivation, earning her the affectionate title of “Mama V.”
Her military service allowed her to earn a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Science, and a Master’s in Health Service Management, both from Mercy College where she received her start formally working with veterans and developing programs to enhance their academic and overall wellness.
She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Gerontology, at Concordia University, Chicago.
Awards
Veteran Student of the Year recognizes an RIT Student Veteran for their academic achievement, community/campus service and military accomplishments. Past Award Winners
Veterans Upward Bound Resiliency Award is given annually to a graduate of the VUB program who has demonstrated perseverance, overcoming obstacles while making meaningful impacts in their education and on others in the community. Past Award Winners
This event will be photographed/videoed. By attending, you grant Rochester Institute of Technology (“RIT”) permission to use photographs and/or audio-visual recordings in which you appear, now and in the future, for illustration, promotion, art, editorial, advertising, and trade, or any other purpose.