SUNY Chancellor visits veteran’s memorial championed by SUNY Empire alum  

(BUFFALO, NY — OCTOBER 28, 2024) State University of New York Chancellor John B. King, Jr., visited the African American Veterans Monument in Buffalo, New York on Oct. 2, 2024. The monument was organized by Robin Hodges ’22, a leader and veteran student at Empire State University.  

Hodges graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business management and economics in 2022. Now, she is working towards an MBA in business management with a concentration in project management. Hodges serves as an organizer and on the board of directors for the African American Veterans Monument, located at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park.  

“The African American Veterans Monument is very important to me,” Hodges said. “It serves as a powerful symbol of the contributions and sacrifices made by African American veterans, who have often been overlooked in history. Helping to organize this monument was a deeply personal project, born out of my respect and admiration for these veterans. The process involved collaboration with veterans’ organizations, local governments, and the community to gather the necessary resources and support. It was not always easy, but the collective effort was driven by the shared goal of honoring these veterans and giving them the recognition, they have long deserved.”  

Hodges said she considers Chancellor King’s visit to the monument an honor and that her experiences in the military are essential to who she is, her journey as a SUNY Empire student, and her role as a community leader.  

“Serving in the Navy instilled in me discipline, resilience, and a deep sense of service to others, it shaped my values and strengthened my commitment to supporting veterans and their families,” Hodges said. “Having my work recognized by SUNY Empire and SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr., is an incredible honor. It is a humbling experience to see something I care so deeply about being acknowledged at such a high level. The Chancellor’s visit to the monument is not only a personal honor, but also a significant moment for everyone involved in this project. I hope that people will learn the importance of recognizing and honoring the contributions of African American veterans. This monument is a legacy, and I want it to serve as a reminder for generations to come that their stories matter and should be respected and remembered.”  

Since the monument’s unveiling, Hodges said she has worked to raised awareness on the significant roles African American veterans have had throughout history and the monument is crucial to connecting veteran communities.   

“What truly stands out to me about the monument is that it is the first of its kind in the nation,” Hodges said. “It is not just a structure; it is a symbol of inclusion and recognition. Since its unveiling, it has raised awareness about the significant roles that African American veterans have played throughout history. The monument has had a meaningful impact on our community by fostering greater unity and pride. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Families of veterans, community members, and even those who are not directly connected to the military have expressed their appreciation. The monument has helped educate the public and bring much-needed recognition to these veterans.”  

Hodges said she hopes to continue this work and make the monument a focal point for honoring veterans in Western New York.  

“My focus is on ensuring that the African American Veterans Monument remains a lasting symbol of pride and remembrance,” Hodges said. “We are currently working on initiatives to restore and upgrade key features, such as the commemorative brick pavers and pillars, to preserve its integrity. Additionally, we are seeking a national designation for the monument, which would elevate its significance on a broader scale. There are also plans to host more events around key dates like Veterans and Memorial Day, keeping the monument a central focal point for honoring veterans. We are exploring educational programs to share the stories of African American veterans with the community and the world, ensuring their contributions are never forgotten.”