Coatesville, PA - On Thursday, November 5, a praiseworthy group of women received the pampering they deserve at the Coatesville Veterans Affairs Medical Center (CVAMC). In preparation for the veterans' banquet, female veterans were treated to hair, make-up, and nail services by students from the Center for Arts & Technology (CAT) Brandywine Campus' cosmetology program.
Cosmetology students used their talents to express their thanks to veterans at Coatesville VA Medical Center by providing them with a day at the salon. The veterans were able to get their hair, make-up, and nails done at no cost in preparation for their annual banquet.
The student volunteers were thrilled to have the chance to help those who have served their country.
"I enjoy helping the veterans," said Tamill Monroe, a junior in the cosmetology program at CAT Brandywine. "You can tell how happy they are to have us here so it makes us feel like we are accomplishing something."
Sheilita Hamilton, senior in the cosmetology program at CAT Brandywine, shared Monroe's thoughts.
"Seeing the looks on the veterans' faces is a reward in itself," said Hamilton. "It's great to be able to let this outstanding group of women know that we care."
Mary Pegues, veteran of the United States Army, enjoyed the students' presence for the "Day of Beauty."
"I love getting my hair done," said Pegues. "It's great to have the students here because they have learned how to do hair the right way, so they are able to make us look our best for the banquet."
The Day of Beauty is just one of the many week-long activities held by Coatesville VA Medical Center in recognition of Veteran's Day 2009, which takes place on Wednesday, November 11.
"On Veterans Day, we honor veterans for the sacrifices they've made for freedom," said Gary W. Devansky, medical center director, "At Coatesville VA Medical Center, we strive to provide the best in care for veterans and our week-long celebration is one special way we do that."
CAT Brandywine has been participating in the "Day of Beauty” since its start roughly eight years ago. Along with showing appreciation to veterans, it also provides students with a real-world experience in the field.
For more information on the week-long celebration for veterans, please contact Kathleen Pomorski, in the CVAMC public affairs office at 610-383-0203 or kathleen.pomorski@va.gov.
If you would like to learn more about the CAT Brandywine cosmetology program or any of the school's 16 career and technical programs for high school students, please attend CAT Brandywine's open house on Tuesday, November 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information, please visit the school's web site at www.catbrandywine.org or email admissions@cciu.org.
