Post on 24-Feb-2016
description
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Veteran Resource Center
Ensuring that our Protectors of Today can
Succeed Tomorrow
Mission StatementThe Kennesaw State University Veteran Resources Center (VRC) is:Committed to support the mission of the
Division of Student Success & through the development & implementation of outreach programs designed to provide student support services focused on the special needs & requirements of today's military veteran, service members, dependents & survivors
The VRC also plays a supporting role in the development & implementation of
educational & development components designed to position the university with veteran & military affiliated organizations & agencies
Our Creed
HistoryFall 2008 -- Presidential Commission FormedSpring 2009 -- Need Assessment & Best Practices Measurements CompletedFall 2009 -- Veteran Resource Center Opened in collaboration with Student Success Services & Student Veterans ClubSeptember 2010 -- Director Hired
Veteran CommunityThe Veteran Community Includes:VeteransService MembersSurvivorsDependants
There are 700 “Identified” members of this community currently receiving
benefits, & 2000 not receiving benefits attending Kennesaw State University
Who Serves the CommunityVA Certifying Official -- Glenda Espana Veteran Resource CenterVA Work Study – 15 students that are prior
service or dependants who assiststudent veterans transition to KSUSpecific RSO’s that allow opportunity for the veteran community to actively get involved in positive efforts in the larger communityCurrently, there are 3 RSO’s that are
registered:• Student Veterans Club• ROTC Club• Semper Fi Society
Who Serves the CommunitySGA -- The combined efforts of both
the KSU’s VRC & the Veteran Organizations, the SGA has authorized & approved the posting of
a new Senator position who’s sole purpose is to advocate the unique needs of today’s veteran community
Services Offered to theVeteran Community
Counseling on the different GI Bill benefits & assistance in determining which is best suited for themAssistance in applying for GI Bill benefits Assistance in navigating through the KSU support structure (e.g., Admissions, Registers, Financial Aid)Referring to outside agencies such as DOL,
DAV, VA, Georgia Veteran Services Veteran Black & Gold Insight sessions
Current BenefitsOrientation fee reimbursementTesting fee wavierMilitary fee wavier(Select reserves 180 consecutive
days in combat zone) except for Meal Plans &Special Class fees such as Lab
VRC with VA work study programGlobal Engagement Certification through overseas
deploymentYellow Ribbon programMilitary stoles authorized for graduation Counseling Social networking through student organizations
AccomplishmentsKSU recognizing these unique needs by hiring a full- time Director – (Frank Wills,U.S.M.C.,MPPA)Approval of a Student SenatorProfessionalize VRCCooperative Studies (Internship)Marine Scholar ProgramVeteran First Year Learning Community
(Fall Semester only)Veteran Insight Sessions Veteran Advisory Committee VA Work Study Program
Current EffortsSoldiers to Scholars -- Board of RegentsAcceptance of AARTS & SMARTS, transcripts, (Already recognized by the Board of Regents) & Service Member Opportunity College (SOC network) Advocating Veteran Issues through the SGACommunity events to raise veteran awareness
The FutureA self sufficient entity capable of truly being a “One Stop Shop”Acquisition of a dedicated VA Certifying OfficialSpace & resources to adequately services
this ever growing community Expand upon current efforts to incorporate the VCAP program
Some FactsVeteran enrollment at KSU has increased by over 67.5% within the last academic year aloneOver 700 “Identified” veteran students with guaranteed tuition & fees paid through a GI Bill averaging over $1.8 million per Semester paid to KSUOver 600 thousand veterans in the US are
currently using VA education benefits