As a new student on campus, or maybe someone who has been around but not yet tapped into the resources the university has for the veteran and military community on campus, there are certain key people you should acquaint yourself with. They come from different centers on campus, can make your time at school easier, and they can provide many opportunities. It is helpful to have friends who can tell you how to navigate the ups and downs of university life as a student in a civilian world. All it takes is to say hello!
Ron Novack | jrnovack@syr.edu
Executive Director – Office of Veteran and Military Affairs
Ron served in numerous command and staff positions in the military for 32 years when he finally retired as a Colonel in 2014. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Veteran and Military Affairs at Syracuse University and is responsible for developing veteran and military connected programs on campus. His goal is to empower the university’s military connected students, alumni, and staff. If you ever need any assistance or direction on how to accomplish something on campus, Ron is the person to speak to. If you’re lucky enough, Ron might give you a new nickname.
Keith Doss | veterans@syr.edu
Veterans Advisor – Veterans Resource Center
Every student’s nightmare is tiptoeing through all the procedures, documentation, and paperwork that dominate school life, even more so when it comes to military-connected students. Keith has worked for years with students and other departments on campus to ease the hassles that student veterans have to go through when it comes to paperwork. He knows the ins and outs of what has to be done, when, and how. He is every student veteran’s superhero.
Jennifer Pluta | jrpluta@syr.edu
Assistant Director for Veteran and Military Family Members – OVMA and Career Services
Every student will come to a crossroads during his or her time at school when they start worrying about life after graduation and the inevitable job hunt. The unique advantage of being a veteran entering the civilian professional world is that there are many opportunities specially crafted for veterans. Jen is the person who will guide you through this phase, writing your resume, getting your LinkedIn up and running, and navigating that job search. Make sure you introduce yourself to her as soon as possible because her calendar will fill up.
Kate Untiedt | Katherine.Untiedt@va.gov
VetSuccess on Campus Counsellor – Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The VetSuccess on Campus (VSOC) program by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helps Veterans, service members, and their qualified dependents succeed and thrive through a coordinated delivery of on-campus benefits assistance and counseling. Kate is our Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC). She can help with exploring career goals, connecting to VA benefits and services, and connecting to community resources.
Jordan Robinson | jlrobi03@syr.edu
President – Student Veterans Organization at Syracuse University
Jordan is a senior and a student veteran who also happens to be the president of the Student Veterans Organization. She is your battle buddy when it comes to crossing the university war field. She understands what you are going through as she has been in the same position and will do everything in her power to help you along the way. Introduce yourself!