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�ڰ������� opened a new Veterans Service Center on the University’s Main Campus on Oct. 6, 2025.

The Veterans Services Center will be a hub for active duty members of the United States military, veterans and those who support them. The goal of the space is to assist military members by providing guidance on benefits they may be eligible for through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, financial aid, customized academic advising and networking opportunities with fellow veteran and active-duty students.

Event speakers included: 

• President Katrina E. Bell-Jordan, Ph.D.
• Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs R. Shayne Cofer, Ph.D.
• Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Terry Mena, Ph.D.
• University Registrar Rahshida Walker
• Chicago 36th Ward Alderman Gilbert Villegas (B.A. ’24 University Without Walls)

Additionally, 39th Ward Alderman Samantha Nugent and aides from the offices of U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley (IL-05) and Illinois House Rep. Michael Kelly (District 15) were in attendance.

“The new Veterans Services Center will serve as a welcoming, purpose-driven space that empowers student veterans with the resources, guidance and community they need to thrive academically and pursue meaningful careers,” said President Bell-Jordan.

The Veterans Services Center is funded through a $145,000 federal grant provided through the Congressional Directed Spending program — thanks to the support of U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth — and �ڰ�������’s President’s Fund.

“This federal grant is provided through the Congressional Directed Spending (CDS) program,” Sen. Duckworth said via a message to the University when funding was announced in April 2024. “This allows members of Congress to request direct funding for projects that benefit their communities. �ڰ������� helps veterans apply for federal and Illinois veteran benefits, which include Illinois Veterans Grant (IVG), Illinois National Guard Grant (ING), MIA/POW Scholarship and Illinois ROTC Scholarship (tuition waiver).”

The Veterans Services Center, located on the 4th floor of the Ronald Williams Library, will provide assistance to both currently enrolled veterans and their dependents, as well as prospective veterans interested in furthering their education at �ڰ�������. It will connect veterans with resources both at the University and externally to help them navigate their college career.

“We are excited to bring the Veterans Services Center to life to support members of the �ڰ������� community who have given so much to our country,” Executive Director of Facilities Management Josh Sumner said. “We hope that this space will provide a comforting and useful meeting space for these vital members of our community.”

Top photo: �ڰ������� President Katrina E. Bell-Jordan (center), surrounded by University administrators, staff, students and guests at the opening of the University’s new Veterans Services Center on Oct. 6, 2025.