Campus Climate for Veteran Students (Spring 2025)

This session will explore the critical supports, resources, and best practices that contribute to the success of veterans, service members, and their families at our colleges and universities.

We will discuss the roles everyone, from faculty and staff to administrators, plays in supporting military-connected students. The importance of Veterans Centers will be highlighted, along with procedural steps that institutions must take to ensure a smooth transition and continued success for these students.

Additionally, we will examine how campus climate impacts the experience of military-connected students and offer strategies for fostering an environment where these students feel supported and valued. This session will empower participants to create a campus atmosphere that embraces military-connected students and enhances their academic and personal success.

Presenter(s):

• Gina Sobania – Director of Military, Veteran, and Adult Learner Services, Minnesota State Academic and Student Affairs
• Desiree’ Clark – Civil Rights, Title IX, Affirmative Action and Compliance Officer, Minnesota State Office of Equity and Inclusion
• Lacey Erickson – Associate Registrar and School Certifying Official, Minnesota State Community and Technical College
• Sarah Godsave – Veterans Service Coordinator, Century College
• Kristin Hughes – Director Veterans Resource Center, St. Cloud State University

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this session, attendees will:

• Gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to military-connected students.
• Learn how to foster a campus-wide culture of support for veterans, service members, and their families.
• Understand key policies, statutes, and procedures that affect military-connected students at our colleges and universities.
• Hear firsthand experiences and insights from Veterans Center Directors about effective practices and programs.
• Leave with actionable strategies to assess and improve campus climate, creating a campus environment where military-connected students feel a true sense of belonging, inclusion, and safety.
• Learn how to integrate support for military-connected students into everyday campus operations and teaching.

Registration Required

Register for this session using Zoom. This session is a partnership between the Office of Equity and Inclusion and Academic and Student Affairs. In addition to Minnesota State faculty and staff, Concurrent Enrollment instructors are also welcome to join.

Questions?

Contact the Network for Educational Development.