The University Veterans’ Coalition (UVC) will host a webcast on strategies to make the University of Nevada, Reno campus a friendlier place for student veterans Wednesday, April 29 in the Joe Crowley Student Union. The webcast will be open between 10 and 11:30 a.m. in Room 320, followed by a period for discussion and public comment.

The UVC is organizing the webcast as part of a series of events that create a dialogue in the University community and beyond about ways to help student veterans transition successfully from military to civilian and student life.

“The efforts of the UVC are critical to making sure that returning veterans feel welcome on campus,” said Troy Stormeon of the Reno Vet Center and a former student veteran at the University. The Vet Center, located on West Fourth Street, offers readjustment and counseling services.

A recent assessment of University student veterans’ needs indicated that some veterans on campus feel like they do not fit in and that other students may unfairly judge them for their military service. Others report being uncomfortable in crowded situations and not wanting to identify their veteran status.

The University community is exploring ways of expanding services for these students, such as developing a mentorship program for veterans when they arrive on campus. Other ideas include a new orientation program and an optional, one-unit class that student veterans could take together.

The public is invited to attend the webcast and other events, provide input, and become involved in this effort.