In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Andrew Roman, Director of Veteran Initiatives at Columbia Southern University (CSU). With an impressive 32-year career in the Michigan Army National Guard, Andrew shares his transformative journey from enlisting in 1986 to retiring as Chief of Staff in 2018. He candidly opens up about the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, emphasizing how even extensive military experience doesn't guarantee a smooth shift into the workforce. Andrew recounts how a fortunate opportunity led him to his current role at CSU, where he now dedicates his career to supporting fellow veterans.
Andrew delves into the comprehensive support Columbia Southern University offers its military-connected students, who make up nearly a third of the 28,000+ student body. He highlights targeted scholarships like the Forever a Hero for veterans and the Hero Behind the Hero for military spouses, as well as exclusive tuition discounts designed to make education more accessible. CSU also caps tuition rates for military tuition assistance at $250 per credit hour, even for graduate studies, demonstrating its commitment to affordability. Andrew underscores the importance of the university's dedicated military support teams and specialized departments that cater to active-duty members, veterans, spouses, and dependents.
A passionate advocate for student engagement, Andrew shares his efforts in leading the university's Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter, fostering a sense of camaraderie in an online learning environment. He recounts how attending the SVA National Conference in Colorado Springs offered CSU's student veterans valuable networking opportunities, leadership development, and personal growth.
Tune in to hear how Columbia Southern University is creating a supportive and empowering environment for military-affiliated students and how Andrew Roman is paying it forward by guiding veterans toward educational and career success. This episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt advice for veterans navigating their own transitions.
Check out Columbia Southern University here: https://www.columbiasouthern.edu/ Columbia Southern University Veteran Center: https://www.columbiasouthern.edu/military/veterans-center
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#Veterans #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEducation #ColumbiaSouthernUniversity #VETSOS #MilitarySupport #VeteranSuccess #StudentVeterans #MilitaryScholarships #EducationForVeterans

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

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Dr. Joshua Cunio, a U.S. Army veteran with over a decade of service as an Apache helicopter technician and CID Special Agent. Dr. Cunio opens up about his challenging transition from military service to civilian life following a career-ending injury. Hear how he overcame adversity and found his calling in education and leadership, becoming the Director of Military and Veteran Outreach at National University and Managing Director of P3M Strategies LLC.
Dr. Cunio shares his passion for empowering veterans through education and leadership development. He discusses National University's commitment to the military community through flexible online and in-person programs, tailored certifications, and strategic industry partnerships. Learn about the university's unique "Whole You" approach, designed to support military-affiliated students in achieving their academic and professional goals. Plus, get an exclusive preview of his upcoming book, The Project Manager's Guide to Lessons Learned, offering practical insights for aspiring and seasoned project managers alike.
🎧 In This Episode:
- Dr. Cunio's military career, medical retirement, and path to resilience
- National University's comprehensive support for military-connected students
- Exploring over 190+ degree programs, certifications, and industry-aligned training
- The value of leadership, teaching, and mentorship in personal growth
- Behind the scenes of Dr. Cunio's upcoming project management guide
📢 Connect with Us:
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🔗 Learn More:
National University: https://www.nu.edu/ National University Veteran Center: https://www.nu.edu/student-services/sas-veteran-student-success/
💬 Join the Conversation:
Drop a comment below and share your transition story! What resources have helped you most in your career journey?
📌 Remember: Don't drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline!
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #VETSOS #NationalUniversity #VeteranEducation #Leadership #ProjectManagement #Resilience #VeteranSuccess #MilitaryCommunity #LeadershipDevelopment