National University to Host Fundraiser for Veteran's Scholarships

La Jolla-based National University will hold its second annual fundraising dinner tonight, which will raise money for the Veterans' Victory Scholarship program.

Last year's event raised enough money to fund scholarships for 12 veterans to attend the nonprofit university, officials said.

"We believe that one of the best ways to thank our military veterans for their service is to support them in achieving their educational and career goals," university President Michael Cunningham said. "The Veterans' Victory Scholarship Fund is an integral component of National University's ongoing, nationally-recognized efforts in providing accessible and affordable college educations to those who have served in the military."

University officials said more than a million veterans were unemployed, which was why it was crucial to improve veterans' career prospects through education and transitional programs. The university has nine on-base learning centers in San Diego County, and has programs to help veteran students transition to academic and civilian life.

The university will match $5,000 and greater sponsorships for the "Visionary Voices, A Tribute to Our Veterans" event, set for 7 p.m. at the San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina, officials said.

Wells Fargo will serve as the title sponsor for the dinner, which university officials said would bring together business, military and community leaders.

—City News Service