We are excited to announce the 10-year anniversary of the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA)! For a decade, OVMA has been dedicated to supporting and empowering our veteran and military-connected students. We invite you to join us in commemorating this significant milestone throughout 2024-2025.

Syracuse University has a long history of serving veterans and military-connected students, dating back to World War I and the post-World War II era when we welcomed home thousands of veterans through the G.I. Bill. The establishment of the OVMA in 2014 marked a significant milestone solidifying the commitment to this community and embedding it intrinsically into the culture of the campus. Our mission remains steadfast: to be the university’s central hub for all veteran and military-connected students, programs, and initiatives

Committed to being the “Best Place for Veterans™,” OVMA has achieved remarkable milestones, including:
  • Simplified Admissions Process: Streamlining the application process and waiving application fees for veteran and military-connected students, increasing enrollment by 300% over ten years.
  • Creation of Robust Support Systems: Establishing tailored support services to address the unique needs of veteran and military-connected students.
  • Innovative Career Services: Developing innovative, career programming that has led to a 100% placement rate for student veterans.
  • Community Building: Fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment through various initiatives and affinity groups.
  • Partnerships and Collaborations: Building strong relationships with campus and community partners, employers, and organizations to expand opportunities for our students.
  • Scholarship Programs: Securing significant funding for scholarships, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder educational pursuits.
  • Recognition and Awards: Consistently ranked annually in the Top 10 Military Times Best Colleges for Vets ranking.

A Decade of Dedication

For over a decade, the Office of Veterans and Military Affairs (OVMA) has been dedicated to supporting the educational and personal growth of our veterans and military-affiliated students.

As we celebrate these accomplishments, we remain committed to building on this foundation of success. With your continued support, we look forward to another decade of empowering and uplifting our veteran and military-affiliated students. Join us in commemorating our journey and envisioning a brighter future for our community. With your help, we can continue this vital work for another ten years and beyond.

$391K increase in giving from 2022 to 2023.

There are six videos in this playlist.

Explore our journey and see why Syracuse University stands as a leader in veteran support.

This collection of videos highlights our commitment to veterans, showcasing Syracuse University’s unique
resources and historical dedication to those who have served. From the WWII era to today, discover why Syracuse is the best place for veterans and how we continue to open doors for America’s heroes.

OVMA’s Accomplishments

FINALCIAL SUPPORT AND SCHOLARSHIPS

  • $135M+ in VA education payments facilitated since 2015.
  • $22M+ in Yellow Ribbon scholarships awarded.
  • $391K in scholarships for 41 military-connected students in 2022-2023.
  • $31K in emergency funding provided in 2022-2023.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

  • 400+ undergraduate student veterans graduated since 2014.
  • 570+ military-connected undergraduates graduated since 2014.

ROTC & ECP EXCELLENCE

  • 240+ Army cadets commissioned since 2014.
  • 89 Air Force cadets commissioned since 2014.
  • Highest enrollment of Army Early Commissioning Program (ECP) students in the nation over the last 20 years.

COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT PROGRAMS

  • Office of Veteran Success
  • Vet-Success on Campus
  • OVMA Resiliency Program

VETERAN CAREER SERVICES

  • 100% job placement rate for undergraduate student veterans for over six years.
  • 160+ unique career services events since 2015.
  • 15 exclusive employer networking receptions.
  • $100,000 internship awards.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION

  • Consistently ranked among the top universities for veterans.
  • Notable alumni:
    Col (Ret.) Eileen Collins ’78
    SGT William Shemin ’1924.
Happy Birthday to the @SpaceForceDoD! The OVMA honors your service and commitment to our nation’s future in space. Here’s to reaching new heights!
Today, the @umontana leadership team visited @SyracuseU to meet with the Office of Veterans and Military Affairs. Together, we explored strategies to enhance the student veteran experience and discussed initiatives that address the unique needs of military-connected students.

Collaboration like this strengthens our commitment to supporting those who have served, ensuring they thrive academically, personally, and professionally.

We’re proud to exchange ideas with other institutions dedicated to empowering student veterans.

As the year draws to a close, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our OVMA community. Thank you for your unwavering service and support. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a wonderful new year ahead. Happy Holidays!

Happy Birthday to the United States Space Force! The OVMA honors your service and commitment to our nation’s future in space. Here’s to reaching new heights!

Today, the University of Montana leadership team visited Syracuse University to meet with the Office of Veterans and Military Affairs. Together, we explored strategies to enhance the student veteran experience and discussed initiatives that address the unique needs of military-connected students. Collaboration like this strengthens our commitment to supporting those who have served, ensuring they thrive academically, personally, and professionally. We’re proud to exchange ideas with other institutions dedicated to empowering student veterans.

🎥 Meet Syracuse Army ROTC Cadet Zahra Johnson G’25, a Syracuse University graduate student and Pat Tillman Foundation Scholar. In this video, Zahra shares her journey and what it means to be part of the Pat Tillman Foundation. Are you ready to make an impact? Apply to become a Tillman Scholar today! https://bit.ly/3VFkiS3

Happy Birthday to the The National Guard! 🎉 For 388 years, the National Guard has stood ready to serve both community and country. Thank you to all our National Guard members for your dedication and service! 🧡💙

📣 Veterans, Active Military, and Military Spouses! 📣 Pursuing a degree at Syracuse University? Don’t let the 2025 Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship slip by. Now’s the time to apply! https://bit.ly/3VFkiS3 #BestPlaceForVeterans

Syracuse University is shaping the future of military leadership through the Stalwart Tactical Athlete Center. Designed for ROTC cadets, the program integrates tactical physical training and leadership development to build tomorrow’s leaders. Syracuse Army ROTC Read more about this transformative initiative: https://veterans.syracuse.edu/news/building-leaders-in-the-stalwart-tactical-athlete-center/

Congratulations to Professor Beth Kubala, Executive Director and Teaching Professor, Veterans Legal Clinic at Syracuse University College of Law for being named the New York State Bar Association’s Veterans Advocate of the Year! Her impactful work supporting veterans and advancing their rights is an inspiration to the entire military-connected community. Learn more about this well-deserved recognition: https://bit.ly/3BlrBaA

📸 This year, we celebrate 10 years of Syracuse University’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA)! Over the past decade, we’ve proudly supported and honored our military-connected students through initiatives like Hometown Heroes. Swipe to see one of our earliest Hometown Heroes alongside one of the many honorees we’ve highlighted this year. 🧡🇺🇸 Here’s to 10 years of championing our military community and many more to come!

Meet Benetta Dousuah, a Syracuse University student veteran and Tillman Scholar making an impact! From her time in the military to her work on campus, Benetta is leading with purpose and inspiring others along the way. Learn more about Benetta’s incredible journey and the impact she’s making in the comments below. ⬇️ Falk College at Syracuse University | Pat Tillman Foundation

Today is #GivingCUSEday! Your gift ignites possibilities, fuels innovation and transforms student experiences at the OVMA. 🍊 Be part of our Orange impact: https://bit.ly/3Zmna8C 🧡

Syracuse University Office of Veteran and Military Affairs️ Updated their cover photo. 2024-12-03T14:23:21+0000

On Veterans Day 2024, Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.A. National Commander Gary Ginsburg, who also serves on our OVMA board, was honored to be photographed with President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden at the White House. This memorable moment followed a Veterans Day breakfast at the White House and preceded the ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, highlighting a collective commitment to honoring the service and sacrifices of our nation’s veterans.

ATTENTION‼️ The Pat Tillman Foundation scholarship application is now LIVE! This application is open to: – Active-Duty service members – Veterans – Military spouses For more info on how to apply, please visit the link here: https://bit.ly/3NrqV5n #BestPlaceForVeterans

Congratulations to our Hometown Hero, Don Cantwell, ’47, G’48! A WWII U.S. Navy veteran, two-time Syracuse alum, and lifelong musician, Don has inspired generations through his service, teaching, and love of music. At 100 years young, he continues to make an impact as a music teacher and jazz band leader. Thank you, Don, for your incredible legacy and dedication to Syracuse University! https://veterans.syracuse.edu/news/hometown-hero-don-cantwell/ 🔗 https://veterans.syracuse.edu/news/hometown-hero-don-cantwell/

🍊 SAVE THE DATE: On December 3, something extraordinary is coming to Syracuse University… #GivingCUSEday transforms student lives, one gift at a time. Don’t wait, make YOUR impact early: https://bit.ly/3Zmna8C

This Thanksgiving, we are deeply grateful for the strength, service, and sacrifices of our veteran and military-connected community at Syracuse University. Your commitment to our nation and your contributions to our campus inspire us every day. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our student veterans, military families, and all who support them. From our OVMA family to yours, we wish you a warm, safe, and joyful Thanksgiving holiday! 🦃🍂

The NVRC got a special visit from Clear Path for Veterans and their adorable service dog puppies! These future service dogs are training to support veterans and their families, showing the incredible bond between humans and their canine companions. Thank you, Clear Path for Vets, for sharing this meaningful program with our community! 🐾

Meet Brig. Gen. Stephen Snelson ’97, a Syracuse University alum and distinguished United States Air Force leader. In this video profile, Brig. Gen. Snelson shares how his time at Syracuse University shaped his journey, offering insights into leadership, service, and resilience. Watch now to be inspired by his incredible story:

Congratulations to our Hometown Hero, U.S. Army veteran Benetta Dousuah! Born in Ghana, West Africa and raised in Newark, NJ, Benetta joined the U.S. Army in 2017 where she served as a unit supply sergeant. Benetta was later stationed at Camp Humphreys, South Korea where she attended the Army Basic Leader Course and graduated as the class Honor Graduate, ranked #2 in her class of 113. She served six years on active duty, reaching the rank of sergeant, and was discharged honorably from thFalk College at Syracuse Universitynetta is pursuing master’s in social work at Falk College at Syracuse University and is a currently a Syracuse University Tillman Scholar. Congratulations Benetta! Go Orange! #TillmanScholar

ICYMI: 🎓 Four exceptional doctoral candidates have been named 2024 Rostker Dissertation Fund Fellows! These scholars, supported by Institute for Veterans and Military Families – IVMF, are making groundbreaking contributions to military and veteran research. Learn more about their impactful work: https://veterans.syracuse.edu/news/four-selected-as-2024-rostker-dissertation-fund-fellows/

This Native American Heritage Month, we honor Ira Hayes (Pima), a U.S. Marine Corps and one of the iconic flag raisers at Iwo Jima in WWII. His bravery and sacrifice remain a powerful symbol of resilience and dedication. #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth

What Drives Military-Connected Students’ Education Choices? 🎓 Scott Taylor, Director of Transfer & Veteran Admissions at Syracuse University, is on a mission to find out. Recently awarded the Richard P. Nathan Public Policy Fellowship, Scott is conducting research to uncover what factors influence military-connected students when choosing a school—a perspective that’s rarely studied. Help Scott by sharing your insights! Your input can shape a more supportive future for military students. 👉 Take the survey here! https://veterans.syracuse.edu/news/what-factors-influence-military-connected-students-when-choosing-their-education/

This evening, the Syracuse University Student Veterans Organization hosted a Friendsgiving event in the National Veterans Resource Center to bring together the campus community before the holidays. Many of our military-connected students will soon depart campus for a much-deserved break from studies and the rigors of college. Events like this one give our students valuable opportunities to come together and enjoy in the camaraderie of fellow veterans, and share in the holiday spirit of giving and coming together. #bestplaceforveterans🍊

Turkeys for Veterans TOMORROW. 🍁🦃 Syracuse University College of Law is proud to host Turkeys for Veterans in partnership with Tully Rinckey PLLC and Price Chopper/Market 32! 🦃 FREE TURKEYS will be distributed to active-duty military personnel, retirees, and veterans in the Syracuse area. Just bring your military ID! 📅 Date: Wednesday, November 20 📍 Location: Syracuse University Law School, Dineen Hall (950 Irving Avenue) 🕒 Details: First come, first served!

Meet Dwayne Murray, Deputy Director of Syracuse University’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA). 🎙️ In this podcast, Dwayne shares how OVMA empowers veteran and military-connected students to achieve their higher education dreams. Discover his insights and the impact of this work here ⤵️ https://bit.ly/3AxMrU1

Congratulations to our Hometown Hero, Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Michelle M. Johnson! Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Michelle served 24 years in the Army, taking on public affairs leader, broadcast correspondent, and drill sergeant roles. She also wrote testimony for Congress to help improve the lives of soldiers. Now a doctoral candidate at Syracuse University’s Newhouse School (@newhousesu), Michelle is studying crisis communications and actively supporting veterans on campus. Join us in honoring her service and continued dedication to service! 🎉

“Service doesn’t end with the uniform.” We’re proud to highlight the journey of Anthony Ruscitto ’22, G’23, L’27, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who’s taken his commitment to service from the battlefield to the courtroom. Now studying at Syracuse University College of Law, he’s channeling his dedication to justice and advocacy in a new way—serving our communities through the power of the law. His story reminds us that veterans continue to make a difference in many ways, and we’re honored to support them in their journeys. Read more about his inspiring transition from military to law here:

This week, Dr. Mike Haynie, Vice Chancellor of Strategic Initiatives and Innovation at Syracuse University, shared a powerful reminder of why it’s essential to honor veterans’ stories. As Dr. Haynie notes, we are “at our best when we share their stories.” Let’s continue to recognize and celebrate the resilience, sacrifices, and journeys of our veterans, ensuring their stories are heard and valued.

Celebrating last night’s Hometown Hero! We’re proud to recognize U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Syracuse University team member Kari Mickinkle. Born in Syracuse and raised in Sandy Creek, Kari enlisted in the Marine Corps after graduating from SU with a degree in history. Serving as a Military Police officer, she completed a deployment to Jordan for Operation Eager Lion, with her proudest moment being her promotion to Corporal. Now back at SU, Kari continues her commitment to veterans as a school certifying official with the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs and as Vice President of the AVECO Board of Directors, supporting VA education benefits across the nation. Thank you, Kari, for your dedicated service! https://veterans.syracuse.edu/news/hometown-hero-kari-mickinkle/

Every day, Syracuse University celebrates the contributions of our student veterans, whose experiences and leadership strengthen our campus community. The OVMA invites you to learn more about these exceptional students and the role they play in our growing military-connected community. Discover their stories here:

On this Veterans Day, the OVMA was honored to host Syracuse University’s annual ceremony at the NVRC, with moving remarks from Chancellor Syverud and guest speaker retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Theresa Cross ’99. Their words reminded us of the resilience, sacrifice, and dedication of our nation’s veterans. Today and every day, we honor all who have served. #BestPlaceForVeterans

On your marks. Get set. Honor. 🇺🇸🏃‍♀️🏃 Thank you to Syracuse Army ROTC, Syracuse University-Air Force ROTC Det 535, and everyone who ran with us to honor our veterans. Together, we showed why Syracuse University is the #BestPlaceForVeterans. 🧡🍊

Celebrating 249 Years of the U.S. Marine Corps! 🎉 This year, we’re honoring veterans like Leonel Aviles, who’ve transitioned from service to Syracuse University. See how Leonel’s experience as a Marine supply specialist has shaped his path in college and beyond.

Connect with the veteran community at Veteran Community Climb Night at the Barnes Center! On Monday, Nov. 11, from 8:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., veterans can come together to tackle the indoor rock climbing wall and enjoy an evening of camaraderie. All skill levels are welcome—gear and guidance provided!

For ten years, the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs has been committed to empowering veteran and military-connected students here at Syracuse University. With your incredible support, we’ve reached major milestones—helping students grow, thrive, and make their mark on the world. But our mission doesn’t end here. Together, we can continue to create opportunities and build brighter futures for the next generation of veteran and military-connected students. Let’s continue building a brighter future for those who have served. Join us—make a gift today and be a part of their journey. https://bit.ly/3YBt0kV

We’re incredibly proud to celebrate our board member, Col. Eileen M. Collins United States Air Force Ret. ’78, H’01, whose inspiring journey as the first woman to pilot and command a space shuttle is featured in SPACEWOMAN! This remarkable documentary debuts at the DOCNYC festival, showcasing Eileen’s trailblazing legacy and her impact on space exploration.

Today, Brig. Gen. Stephen P. Snelson ’97 continued his visit at Syracuse University Office of Veteran and Military Affairs, meeting with cadets from the Syracuse University-Air Force ROTC Det 535. He shared insights from his own career, offered advice on leadership, and encouraged the next generation of United States Air Force officers as they prepare to serve. It was an inspiring moment for our cadets to connect directly with an accomplished alum and leader in the Air Force.

Brig. Gen. Stephen P. Snelson ’97 recently visited Syracuse University’s National Veterans Resource Center, meeting with leaders from the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs to discuss expanding support for military-connected students. He also met with United States Air Force Col. Michael Skarda, Commander of the University’s Air Force ROTC Detachment (Syracuse University-Air Force ROTC Det 535), Dr. Haynie, Vice Chancellor of the Strategic Initiatives, and Ron Novack, Executive Director of the OVMA, to explore new initiatives aimed at empowering student veterans and ROTC cadets.

The OVMA was honored to host Bob Lyons and the Syracuse DKE brothers in support of the James Lyons ’03 Sons & Daughters Memorial Scholarship Fund. It was truly inspiring to see our community come together for such a meaningful cause. Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate and support this special legacy! https://bit.ly/4eeNUvW

Today’s Hometown Hero is none other than our very own Michael Frasciello, Syracuse University alum and Dean of the Syracuse University – College of Professional Studies! From his roots in New Jersey, to a decade of service in the United States Air Force, to leading Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies, Mike Frasciello has consistently pursued growth and service. Inspired by his family’s proud military tradition, Mike enlisted in the Air Force, where he supported missions like Desert Storm. Today, he’s dedicated to expanding educational access for non-traditional students and veterans at SU. We’re grateful to Dean Frasciello for the lasting impact he’s making on our community! 🍊 https://veterans.syracuse.edu/blog/2024/11/02/hometown-hero-mike-frasciello/

The Be a Pilot experience during Orange Central Homecoming is taking off! ✈️ This sold-out event, hosted by the Syracuse University-Air Force ROTC Det 535 at the NVRC, gives attendees an exclusive chance to test out a flight simulator and meet SU Air Force ROTC cadets. We’re excited to share this unique hands-on glimpse into the Air Force ROTC curriculum with our Syracuse University community! 🍊

On Nov. 11, we’re honored to welcome retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Theresa Cross ’99 as our Veterans Day guest speaker at Syracuse University’s NVRC. Theresa, a graduate of the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and Syracuse University College of Arts and Sciences, reflects on the importance of service and the sacrifices made by those who serve. “Veterans Day is as American as apple pie,” Theresa says, noting that only about 6% of Americans serve in the military. For her, it’s a day to recognize that commitment—and the special bond she shares with Syracuse, a “family school” where multiple generations of her family have studied. Join us in person or online to hear Theresa’s story and celebrate our veterans.

Syracuse Community, This November, we remember U.S. Army 1st Lieutenant James N. Lyons ’03, who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 26, 2007, while serving in Iraq. James was a beloved member of the Orange family, an EMT with Syracuse University Ambulance, a Delta Kappa Epsilon brother, and a member of the Syracuse Army ROTC. In his honor, the James N. Lyons ’03 Sons and Daughters Memorial Scholarship Fund supports children of fallen or disabled U.S. veterans at Syracuse University. As James is recognized at Saturday’s Syracuse vs. Virginia Tech game, please consider a gift in his memory: https://bit.ly/3YKCcoj

What Drives Military-Connected Students’ Education Choices? 🎓 Scott Taylor, Director of Transfer & Veteran Admissions at Syracuse University, is on a mission to find out. Recently awarded the Richard P. Nathan Public Policy Fellowship, Scott is conducting research to uncover what factors influence military-connected students when choosing a school—a perspective that’s rarely studied. Help Scott by sharing your insights! Your input can shape a more supportive future for military students. 👉 Take the survey here!

You’re invited! Join us tomorrow October 30, from 5:00 to 6:30 PM at the National Veterans Resource Center (or tune in via live stream) for “How to Get Happier in an Unhappy World” with Arthur Brooks. Brooks, a Harvard professor and The Atlantic columnist, will share insights on leadership and happiness from his popular “How to Build a Life” series. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn valuable strategies for finding happiness and meaning, even in challenging times. Cosponsored by the D’Aniello Family Foundation, Louis A. Bantle Chair in Business-Government Policy, and the Howard G. and S. Louise Phanstiel Chair. 📲 Register today to reserve your spot! https://bit.ly/4e7gkYI Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs

Join us for Syracuse University’s annual Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11, from 11-12 PM ET in the K.G. Tan Auditorium at the National Veterans Resource Center (NVRC). This event will honor those who have served our nation, featuring keynote remarks from U.S. Army Ret. Lt. Col. Theresa Cross ’99, a veteran with 28 years of service, as well as music and celebration. A lunch reception will follow in the Bisignano Grand Hall during that time. Can’t attend in person? Tune in virtually by RSVPing for the Livestream Webinar. https://cusecommunity.syr.edu/s/1632/17/interior.aspx?sid=1632&gid=2&pgid=10762&content_id=15196