Have you ever wondered what was going on in the house located on the SNU campus on the corner of N. Peniel Ave and N.W. 41st St? Positioned on the east side of the campus across the street from the W. Don Beaver Science Hall sits the SNU VETS (Veterans Educational Transition Success) Center. The former International Building that was donated to the university by the Beaver family years ago now serves as a facility to assist veterans in pursuit of their degree.
When asked about the mission of this facility, SNU VETS Center Coordinator of Marketing & Community Affairs, Cadron Davis explained, “We have the goal to become a national beacon of military personnel support and success. We strive to assist the military and veterans with support in multiple areas to help them transition to civilian life. The VETS Center staff provides help from enrollment through graduation, while also offering encouragement from faculty and staff.”
Davis further stated, “The center provides a comfortable and casual space on the SNU campus for students to study, relax, and network. The facilities include a computer, study space, copier, kitchenette, patio and outdoor grill available for use to visitors. Referrals to the Veterans Administration, other university departments, and community organizations are also available.”
According to Davis, “There are around 400 active students who are veterans in any given semester.” One of those veterans is Jacob Gross, an SNU Adult Studies student. Gross stated, “They have been very helpful anytime I need assistance navigating the GI Bill.” Gross further stated, “I will often go there to study.”
When asked if all universities have a VETS Center, Davis explained that “We are 1 of 13 VETS Centers in the United States who have received the Federal Grant to start and sustain a facility. What makes SNU’s center different, is that it is meant to be a one-stop shop.” From my personal experiences, I can attest that this center is truly one of the best that I’ve had the privilege to visit.
There are plenty of opportunities for all SNU students to get involved. Davis remarked that “We have a Student Veterans Association, volunteer opportunities for work-study for veterans, and our normal work-study positions for all students. If interested and you’re on campus, just stop by and anyone can help you out.”
The VETS Center’s usual business hours are Monday – Friday, 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. The facility is manned with a highly experienced and friendly staff that is always eager to help any way they can. If interested in further information or details, contact one of the representatives by calling the office at (405) 491-6317, visiting www.snu.edu/veterans or simply stopping by the VETS Center.
(Photos by Anthony Allford)