About us

Supporting students' transition to higher education

A graduate in cap and gown, holding a diploma, smiling with a faculty member

Our mission

Veteran Services' mission is to aid the transition of prior military members and their families into successful higher education endeavors by deploying best practices in three areas:

  1. Innovative programs and events that bring awareness to resources and opportunities for transition to successful graduation.
  2. Focused preparation for next-step career goals.
  3. Comprehensive services to manage fiscal responsibilities with education benefits.

I am a Marine who joined right out of high school and am proud to be a first-generation college student who took the nontraditional path. I earned my Master’s in Higher Education from the University in 2014. My passion for working with college students started at the YMCA in 1993. Since then, I have dedicated my career to helping students succeed, and in return, they have impacted my life.

John Pratt, M.A.

Coordinator, Veteran Services

John Pratt

I have been the Director of Veteran Services since December 2019 and have worked in the department since 2012. I obtained my Master’s in Public Administration and Policy in 2015 from the University. I am proud of our student veteran and family member community on campus and the vast contributions we make. The University of Nevada, Reno is a place for our veteran and military students to be challenged academically, pursue new career interests and a space to expand themselves as they integrate into the next phase of their lives.

Chai Cook, M.P.A.

Director, Veteran Services

Chai Cook
A group of Veteran Service employees form a circle, fists meeting in the middle

Want to join our staff?

We are always looking for motivated students to join our team.

All chapter benefits are encouraged to apply. Contact us at veteranservices@unr.edu.

Climate survey

In April 2023, Veteran Services conducted a climate survey for all veteran and military-connected students. Overall, the University of Nevada, Reno campus at-large provides a welcoming space for veterans, family members and military-connected students. Veteran Services strengths include providing meaningful support as students transition to higher education, a dedicated space which allows student veterans to connect based on a shared experience and develop a sense of belonging.

Climate Survey highlights:

  • 91% strongly agree or agree would recommend the University of Nevada, Reno to someone with prior military experience
  • 82% strongly agree or agree feel supported by Veteran Services
  • 74% strongly agree or agree that faculty, staff and students in the classroom accept them and feel comfortable sharing opinions
  • 66% strongly agree or agree supported by campus faculty and staff