.jpeg)
At The University of Akron (UA), veteran students are more than just another group within the student body; they are a community deeply supported and respected by the University. Mary Rossett, director of the Military Services Center, stands at the heart of this effort, ensuring that the transition from military to academic life is as seamless as possible. As the dedicated advisor for the Student Veterans of America Association, Rossett wears many hats, from managing GI Bill benefits to organizing events that foster a sense of camaraderie and purpose among veteran students.
Rossett’s primary focus is ensuring that veterans receive their GI Bill benefits, have their military credits posted and access the necessary support throughout their academic journey. Her commitment doesn’t stop at administrative tasks. As the advisor for the Student Veterans of America Association, she organizes meaningful events like a military charity ball and an out-of-the-darkness walk for suicide prevention.
Rossett ensures that veteran students feel supported academically and personally. She establishes study groups, peer advising partnerships, and connects veterans with essential resources such as tutoring and counseling services. Veterans also have access to dedicated lounges across campus, where they can study, relax and build a sense of community — a crucial element in helping them adjust to civilian and academic life.
UA has developed a specialized program tailored to meet the needs of veteran students, recognizing the unique challenges they face. This program is supported by key offices, such as the Office of Accessibility and Adult Focus, both of which work closely with the Military Services Center to provide comprehensive support.
Scott Roberts, associate director of Adult Focus, plays a pivotal role in assisting veteran students. Roberts’ approach is rooted in understanding the unique experiences of veterans as they transition back to civilian and academic life. He uses military lingo and creates an informal, non-judgmental environment where veterans feel comfortable discussing their challenges. The office provides holistic advising, assisting with everything from financial aid to accessing benefits, ensuring that veterans have the support they need for a smooth academic journey.
Similarly, the Office of Accessibility focuses on supporting veterans with disabilities. Director Jessica DeFago ensures that veterans are aware of the services available to them and assists with documentation and accommodation plans. The office’s ability to offer built-in accommodations, such as flexibility around attendance for veterans who may need to report for drill or other
military duties, is particularly beneficial.
The success of this program lies in the collaboration between various University departments. Partnerships ensure that veterans are connected to the necessary resources quickly and efficiently.
After the introduction of the post-9/11 GI Bill, the evolution of veteran services was seen firsthand at UA. This significant change offered extensive benefits to veterans and their families, leading to an increased need for specialized support on campus.
Recognizing the evolving needs of veterans, UA made a significant addition to its Counseling and Testing Center by hiring Dr. Matthew Altiere, a clinical psychologist with extensive experience working with veterans. Altiere’s background made him an invaluable asset to the University, specifically when addressing the mental health needs of returning veterans.
“One of the biggest losses for veterans when they are discharged from the military is that they go from having natural comradery and community, then they can lose a lot of that with general society,” explained Altiere. “So, for our veterans to get that community back while also being immersed in the University environment, it’s bigger than oneself.”
With ongoing efforts and new initiatives, UA is committed to ensuring that veteran students receive the support they need to succeed, both academically and personally.
Story by Bree Sabin
To learn more, visit uakron.edu/veterans