Colorado Mesa University (CMU) has seen many veterans that have graduated and that are currently enrolled. Through the Student Veteran Association (SVA), there has been substantial support given to our Veterans to help them attend college and create a welcoming environment.
Many veterans who receive benefits from the United States Veteran Association (VA) also receive yearly awarded scholarships from CMU to help lower costs. There are also Mental health services and recreational activities offered to veterans through the US VA.
“Through the US VA, as far as benefits go, we do activities, getting outdoors, hiking, counseling. I’m also a student counselor. So, we have a lot of veterans that get overwhelmed with their own issues, whether it be PTSD, whether it be family, whether it’s just overload on schoolwork,” SVA President Nick Williams said.
In March, the SVA and the outdoor program are planning a rafting trip that is completely free to veterans and dependents, as well as alumni and current students. There are also additional trips planned throughout the semester and some only cost a small fee which goes to funding services for veterans. These services are great ways in helping to build a supportive community for veterans.
CMU has also assisted veterans in employment through work study programs. These programs are a great way for veterans to have a job and focus on their academic studies. Williams currently has a work study.
“I have a work study at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery, and I help out, so I used to work at the VA Office helping with student benefits, and now I help out with the other side with helping older vets set up their benefits for getting injured and buried. That helps us go to school and also have a job,” Williams said.
Additionally, CMU has helped veterans in academic assistance and created a comfortable environment. Student Services allows students and veterans who do not have access to technology to rent laptops for a $50 fee and that is refunded at the end of the semester with no damages upon return. The SVA also provides veterans with additional materials.
“We provide notebooks, pens, paper, note cards. Just the basic materials that a lot of students come in and they don’t always have enough money to cover all the resources they need. That’s something CMU and the SVA provides,” Williams said.
CMU also has provided a comfortable atmosphere for veterans. For example, there is a veteran’s lounge in Houston Hall that provides snacks and drinks. CMU has proven itself to be more than just an academic institution; it is a dedicated ally to the veterans who have served our country. Through the robust support provided by the SVA, veterans find not only educational opportunities but also a community that understands and addresses their unique needs. By addressing financial, mental health, recreational, employment and academic needs, CMU has succeeded in creating a comprehensive and nurturing environment for veterans.
Through these initiatives, CMU stands as a shining example of a higher education institution committed to the well-being and success of its veteran population.
