Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
09/17/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/17/2024 14:38
34 Michigan post secondary institutions participated in MVAA's 3rd annual Veteran Friendly Schools Innovation Conference
First-ever MVAA's Education Innovator Awards honors five post-secondary institutions that transformed on-campus experiences for military-connected students
EAST LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) hosted their third annual Veteran-Friendly Schools Innovation Conference for post-secondary institutions to learn how they can best support their military-connected students. Nearly 100 attendees from more than 30 academic institutions across Michigan joined speakers, many veteran support organizations, and State of Michigan departments to better understand the programs available for service members turned students.
"This is the only conference of it's kind in Michigan that brings post-secondary institutions together to specifically address the issues that service members, veterans and their families are experiencing," says Joe Saur, MVAA education analyst. "It is critical for Michigan's academic institutions to support their military-connected students to ensure their success."
For the first time, the Veteran-Friendly Schools Innovation Conference presented the MVAA's Education Innovator Awards to five deserving institutions. This award recognizes an academic institution or staff member(s), (either as individual or team), who developed a new process, method, technology, or innovative service that will radically improve or transform on-campus experiences for military-connected students.
The five schools awarded 2024 MVAA's Education Innovator Awards are:
Grand Valley State University
In recognition of their innovative approach to supporting veterans in their pursuit of post-secondary education, as well as dedicated assistance programs to help veterans starting their own businesses, the Grand Valley State University is awarded the MVAA Education Innovator Award for their Veterans Upward Bound and The Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur-Lab (MVE-Lab) programs. By placing students at the center of their efforts and providing personalized support to help veterans successfully navigate and complete their educational and entrepreneurial goals, Grand Valley State University has demonstrated exceptional dedication to empowering those who have served our country. Their commitment to excellence and student success has not only transformed individual lives but has also set a new standard for inclusive and effective support programs for veterans.
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Michigan State University
In recognition of their commitment to transformative education and unwavering support for our states veterans, Michigan State University is awarded the MVAA Education Innovator Award for their participation in the Warrior Scholar Project. By bringing 18 veterans from other states to Michigan and providing them with a unique educational experience, Michigan State University has demonstrated exceptional dedication to serving those who have served our state and country. Their collaborative efforts and exceptional initiatives have truly made a difference in the lives of these individuals, embodying the spirit of innovation and community impact.
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Saginaw Valley State University
In recognition of their innovative solution and unwavering support for military personnel, Saginaw Valley State University is awarded the MVAA Education Innovator Award for implementing a process that allowed soldiers to continue their education despite experiencing delays with their benefit reimbursements. Through their proactive approach and commitment to student success, Saginaw Valley State University has demonstrated exceptional dedication to serving those who have served our country. By creating a pathway that enables soldiers to stay in school during challenging times, the university has exemplified compassion, flexibility, and a steadfast commitment to supporting the academic pursuits of our nation's heroes. Saginaw Valley State University's innovative process showcases their commitment to inclusive and accessible education for all, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed for our nation.
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University of Michigan - Dearborn
In recognition of their groundbreaking initiative and unwavering commitment to supporting veterans, the University of Michigan Dearborn is awarded the MVAA Education Innovator Award for being the first university in Michigan to host an on-campus Veteran Service Officer. By establishing this vital resource directly on campus, the University of Michigan Dearborn has set a new standard in providing accessible, specialized support to our state's veterans. This innovative approach not only demonstrates their dedication to meeting the unique needs of those who have served but also showcases their proactive efforts in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students. The University of Michigan Dearborn's pioneering spirit and commitment to service exemplify the essence of innovation and transformative impact in higher education.
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Western Michigan University
Pictured left to right: MVAA Deputy Director Todd Butler, Josh Franks and MVAA Education Analyst Joe Saur.In recognition of their innovative and comprehensive support for Michigan veterans, Western Michigan University is awarded the MVAA Education Innovator Award for hosting a military benefits workshop that connects veterans to essential services. By offering a workshop that assists veterans in obtaining ID cards, accessing tuition assistance, navigating benefits programs, and connecting them with vital resources, Western Michigan University has demonstrated exceptional dedication to serving those who have served our country. This proactive approach not only streamlines the process for veterans but also showcases the university's commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. Western Michigan University's initiative exemplifies creativity, impact, and a steadfast commitment to empowering veterans as they pursue their educational goals.
Learn how to become a Veteran-Friendly School by visiting MVAA's education website. If you are a service member or veteran or the family member and need support, please contact the Michigan Veterans Resource Service Center at 1-800-MICH-VET (1-800-642-4838) learn more about veteran benefits and resources.