News: Hosmer Visitor Center opens
The U.S. Air Force Academy celebrated the completion of the Hosmer Visitor Center with a VIP ribbon-cutting ceremony May 15 and a public grand opening May 16.
Named in honor of Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Brad Hosmer '59 and his wife, Zita, the Hosmer Visitor Center is an interactive showcase that focuses on the 47-month cadet journey at the Academy and a glimpse at the careers they can expect as graduates. Gen. Hosmer is the Academy’s first graduate and first Rhodes scholar, as well as the first graduate to serve as USAFA superintendent.
State and local officials spoke at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, extolling the role the visitor center will have in boosting the Pikes Peak region's economy. It is the final project in the Colorado Springs City for Champions initiative to attract more visitors to the region. The facility was built through a public-private partnership that included the Air Force Academy, Blue & Silver Development Partners, the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation and the City of Colorado Springs.
Academy leaders hope the Hosmer Visitor Center will inspire young people to consider a life of service, which could include seeking an appointment to the Air Force Academy. Lead donor Jerry Bruni '70 reinforced that hope during his remarks as well.
After the ceremony, attendees were treated to tours and an outdoor reception generously sponsored by USAA.
Located just outside the Academy's North Gate, the Hosmer Visitor Center is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., including weekends and holidays. Admission is free. Guests can visit at any time during these hours, and each visit typically takes 1–2 hours to explore all galleries and exhibits. The Hosmer Visitor Center is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
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