“Closing the Loop” Veterans Services Panel, April 30

Mayor Kathy Taylor’s office has teamed up with the University of Tulsa Center for Community Research and Development to host “Closing the Loop: Meeting the Needs of Returning Military and their Families in Tulsa.” The event is set for Thursday, April 30, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the TU Allen Chapman Activity Center Gallery Room.

The panel discussion will address gaps in services and unique obstacles facing veterans and service members. Comments received at the forum will be used to develop and continue a plan to address the needs of those returning from the war zone. The event is free and open to the public.

Panelists will include retired Major General LaRita Aragon, Judge Sarah Smith who presides over the Tulsa Veterans Treatment Court, Dr. Elise Taylor with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Dr. Gordon Taylor with the University of Tulsa, acclaimed author Michael P. Mason, and Matt Stiner, Mayor Kathy Taylor’s Veterans Affairs coordinator.

“Since taking office as Mayor, one of my priorities has been military and veterans affairs,” Mayor Taylor said. “Recently, my office launched the Tulsa Veterans Treatment Court, which is the third veterans' court in the nation to help veterans who enter the criminal justice system. We have also established Veterans and Military resource centers at Tulsa Community College campuses and the airport, along with other programs.”