In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we sit down with Joshua Rider, Executive Director for the Center for Adult and Veteran Services at Kent State University. Joshua shares his inspiring journey from a Kent State undergraduate to leading initiatives that support military-connected students. Discover how Kent State serves its 1,000+ military-affiliated students through centralized benefits processing, tailored programming across eight regional campuses, and holistic support services that extend to veterans' families. Joshua dives into the history and growth of veteran support services at Kent State, detailing how the Post-9/11 GI Bill transformed the university's approach to serving military students. He discusses the strategic combination of benefits processing and student engagement, creating a comprehensive support system that addresses both academic and personal needs. Learn how Kent State's flexible online portals and campus-specific programs empower veterans across Ohio, from the foothills of Appalachia to the shores of Lake Erie. Additionally, Joshua highlights unique opportunities for veterans, including Kent State's nationally recognized College of Education, Health, and Human Services, its top-tier fashion design program, and the university's exclusive aeronautics training at their on-campus airport. He emphasizes the importance of community building through student organizations, veteran-specific events, and partnerships with external support services like the VA and Student Accessibility Services. Joshua also shares his personal connection to the university, with his daughter becoming a fourth-generation Golden Flash, and reflects on how Kent State continues to foster a supportive environment for veterans and their families. Don't miss this insightful conversation about creating meaningful support systems for veterans in higher education.

Check out Kent State University: https://www.kent.edu/

Kent State University Center for Adult and Veteran Services: https://www.kent.edu/cavs Subscribe and follow the VET S.O.S. Podcast on YouTube and all major podcast platforms to stay connected. Remember, don't drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline! #VETSOS #KentStateUniversity #VeteranSupport #MilitaryConnectedStudents #HigherEducation #VeteranResources #StudentSuccess #VeteranEducation #MilitaryFamilies #VeteranTransition #SupportServices