PHOENIX – Veterans Heritage Project has officially changed its name to Imprints of Honor. This change reflects the organization’s mission to connect students with veterans, preserve their legacies, and promote civic education. Recognized by the Arizona Department of Education as a Character and Civic Education program, Imprints of Honor aims to develop future leaders by honoring veterans and preserving America’s heritage. Founded in 2004 and established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2009, the organization inspires values of honor and service by fostering connections between veterans and students.
A New Name with the Same Mission
“Our mission begins with veterans and lives on in students,” said Michelle DiMuro, Executive Director of Imprints of Honor. She emphasized that the new name strengthens the bond between veterans and students while reinforcing the organization’s focus on character and civic education. These values are essential for growing the program.
Preserving Veterans’ Legacies
Imprints of Honor connects students from seventh grade through college with U.S. veterans. Through one-on-one interviews, students record veterans’ stories to ensure they are preserved for future generations. These stories are archived in the Library of Congress, published in the student-led book Since You Asked, and celebrated at community events. Veterans often find healing by sharing their experiences, sometimes for the first time. Meanwhile, students are inspired to live with honor and service.
Growth and Impact
During the 2023-24 school year, Imprints of Honor partnered with 30 schools, engaged 205 students, preserved the legacies of 244 veterans, and awarded 10 scholarships. Additionally, the program participated in 41 civic engagement activities. Since its founding, the program has completed 2,927 veteran interviews, impacted 59,748 students, and published 20 volumes of veteran stories. The organization is also piloting new programs in Tennessee and Florida.
A Legacy of Inspiration
The idea for Imprints of Honor began when Arizona history teacher Barbara Hatch invited WWII veterans to her classroom. The veterans answered a student’s question: “Is Saving Private Ryan real?” These presentations inspired the students. Over time, this led to the development of an after-school program that continues to grow.
“We are excited to strengthen our community bonds and preserve veterans’ history under the new name, Imprints of Honor,” said Hatch. “For 20 years, we have honored veterans while instilling character in the next generation. We look forward to the future.”
For more information, visit Imprints of Honor.
