Patty Blackwell, a U.S. Air Force veteran and Honoring Women Veterans Committee co-chair, noted during her welcome that the featured speakers were both student veterans. Trina Zazarine, ’25, is a U.S. Air Force veteran and Karina Reyna, ’25, is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. They shared their experiences on active duty.

Zazarine’s service as a medic during the Gulf War led her to a 22-year career as a nurse. She reflected on her decision to join the military, as well as the training and opportunities being in service created for her.

She is past president of the Meredith Student Veterans of America club and past commander of the American Legion Post 67 in Cary, N.C. Zazarine values opportunities to engage with fellow veterans at Meredith and in the community to “foster a unique camaraderie known only to those who have served.”

Karina Reyna, ’25

Zazarine asked those in attendance to remember not all veterans are men. “There are women who have taken that same oath to dedicate their lives to this great nation,” she said. “Thank you for honoring us.” 

Karina Reyna served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 12 years. In her remarks, she shared her nervousness and excitement upon arrival at boot camp when she was nearly 18.

Reyna’s service included humanitarian relief efforts in The Philippines after a typhoon. “What stuck with me was how good it felt to be of service and how much time we spent helping the locals there, trying our best despite the language barrier.”

Reyna takes pride in her status as a veteran. “As a woman, I am proud to say I served my country,” Reyna said. “I am proud to be a veteran, just as I am proud to be a wife, daughter, sister, dog mom, and Meredith College student.”

The College’s annual Veterans Day commemoration is presented by the Meredith College Honoring Women Veterans Committee.