By: Liz Slogum ~Staff Writer~
Back in August of 2013, Xavier University’s Center for Veterans’ Affairs opened in a house next to the Village apartments. With an increasing number of Xavier students who are veterans, there is an increased need for resources for them to turn to for support.
The center serves as a place for student veterans to study, socialize, and receive academic advice and help. Computers, free printing, recreational activities such as pool and ping pong, and a kitchen are available for use by veteran students with their All Cards from 6 AM until midnight.
The campus organization helps veteran students find work and careers as well, offering career services and placements for internships using its network of corporations and companies. Jobs for students in the Work-Study program are available for students to earn some extra cash while spending time at the center.
“We have a growing number of veterans that are using these services and we want all student veterans to know that we and the center are always open to them,” says Michael Luallen, director of the Center of Veterans’ Affairs.
Because the Center for Veterans’ Affairs is partnered with Habitat for Humanity, the organization also fixes veterans’ houses off campus. In addition, they run a care package campaign to send care packages to troops in combat zones, on the side of organizing other events to support our soldiers.
“We are hosting a Boots to Suits Golf Scramble that our student veterans are invited to attend,” says Luallen.
Student veterans who have not yet heard about the services the Center for Veterans’ Affairs has to offer are encouraged to stop by for a visit during hours of operation with their All Card. The center’s location can be found on the campus maps in space B6.