A message from Andrew Bender, Director of Operations and Services Chez Veterans Center
Dear Illini Club of San Diego County,
As we step into this New Year, I want to extend our gratitude for your unwavering support and generous donation to the Chez Veterans Center. Over the years, your kindness and dedication to our cause have made an immeasurable impact on the lives of our Veterans. Your contribution not only signifies your commitment to supporting those who have served our country, but also honors the legacy and history of service from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
The Chez Veterans Center continues to thrive and provide essential services, thanks to the support of compassionate individuals and organizations like yours. Your generosity enables us to offer vital resources, care, and a sense of belonging to our veterans as they navigate their journey beyond the military. Your specific gifts enable students to achieve their academic goals!
Please accept our heartfelt appreciation for your continuous support. Your commitment to our cause empowers us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have bravely served our nation.
With deepest gratitude,
2023 Illini Club of San Diego County Scholarship Recipient
Briley McVey, Law
Class of 2024
Briley was born and raised in Atlanta, Illinois, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2012. After completing training at bases in California, Florida, and North Carolina, he was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, California as a member of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, the “Screw Crew.” Upon separating from the Marine Corps as a Sergeant in 2017, Briley completed his undergraduate degree at San Diego State University and is currently a third-year law student at the University of Illinois College of Law. In addition to completing his law school coursework, Briley represents underserved veterans in the community as part of the Veterans Legal Clinic. After graduating, Briley will be moving to Washington, D.C., to work for an international law firm.
"Receiving the scholarship from the Illini Club of San Diego County is a tremendous recognition. Beyond the financial aspect, it also reminds me how lucky I was to spend so many years in San Diego. I am filled with gratitude towards the generous donors that make this scholarship possible. In the future, I hope the Illini Club scholarship continues to strengthen the bond between the University of Illinois, my favorite school, and San Diego, my favorite city. One day, I hope to contribute to ensure this bond continues. I cannot thank the Illini Club enough for their generous financial support and I am grateful to feel connected again to San Diego, a city I called home for nearly ten years."