By University Communications
Thursday, 02 22 2024

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS — The Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter at Texas A&M University-San Antonio hosted a listening session with SVA National CEO Jared Lyon and SVA representatives from other universities across the state to discuss the future of student veterans in Texas.

"Veteran representation on college campuses is critical, and the Visibility Exchange is a way to meet veterans where they are, share best practices and build better chapters," said Lyon. 

A reception preceded the event during which Monteigne Long, Director of the Office of Veteran Services, accepted the 2023 William Pearson Tolley Champion for Veterans in Higher Education award on behalf of The Texas A&M University System. The award recognizes institutions of higher education for outstanding commitment to and support of veterans.

Present at the event were SVA staff, chapter officers and members from Texas A&M University-Central Texas, University of Texas at San Antonio, University of the Incarnate Word, Texas Christian University and A&M-San Antonio. 

"This is a great opportunity for SVA chapters across Texas to come together and create connections and inspire effective leadership," said Connor Crowell, A&M-San Antonio's SVA chapter president. "We're honored to host the event."

The Visibility Exchange's discussions revolved around access to resources, mental health support, career development opportunities and the importance of a supportive campus environment. By addressing these critical areas, the participating institutions aim to ensure that student veterans receive the necessary support and guidance to succeed in their academic pursuits and beyond.

With a focus on fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, the SVA listening sessions serve as a platform for open dialogue among key stakeholders. By leveraging the collective expertise of these universities, the visibility exchange offers feedback on strategies that will empower student veterans to thrive academically, personally and professionally.

Texas A&M University-San Antonio, known for its commitment to serving military-affiliated students, is honored to host this event. As a leading institution in veteran education, the University recognizes the significance of providing a supportive and inclusive environment for student veterans. By collaborating with other universities and SVA, Texas A&M University-San Antonio aims to strengthen the network of support available to student veterans statewide.

For more information about this event and the Student Veterans of America chapter at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, contact Director of Military Affairs Tila Jernigan at tila.jernigan@tamusa.edu.

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About Texas A&M University-San Antonio

Established as a stand-alone university in 2009, Texas A&M University-San Antonio is a comprehensive four-year public university that reflects the culturally diverse, heritage-rich community it serves. Situated on nearly 700 acres in South San Antonio, the University offers 37 undergraduate degrees and 19 graduate degrees to more than 7,300 students. A&M-San Antonio is home to the Henry G. Cisneros Institute for Emerging Leaders and the Cyber Engineering Technology/Cyber Security Research Center. The University holds the Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designation and is one of only 30 higher education institutions in the U.S. to have received the Seal of Excelencia certification from Excelencia in Education for its support of Latino student success. More than 77 percent of A&M-SA students identify as Hispanic, and approximately 60 percent are the first in their family to attend college. A&M-San Antonio is a military-embracing institution; in 2020, Military Times ranked the University No. 35 in the nation for “Best for Vets: Colleges.” Visit tamusa.edu for more information. #onamission