UC awarded Purple Star again for Veterans Programs & Services
Veterans find support and guidance for academic pursuits
The University of Cincinnati is among 30 colleges and universities in Ohio that have had their Collegiate Purple Star designation renewed for continuing efforts to support students with military backgrounds.
The Ohio Purple Star designation is awarded by the Ohio Department of Higher Education, with eligibility determined by the Ohio Purple Star Advisory Board. UC was in the first cohort of Collegiate Purple Star awardees that received the designation in May 2022. Schools must apply for renewal after three years.
“To receive the designation for a second time shows our commitment to our nation’s heroes,” says Terence Harrison, program manager for UC’s Veterans Programs & Services, Division of Student Affairs.
Testimonials from veteran students, such as third-year student Crystal Merino, underscore the significant impact of UC’s efforts.
Veteran-student Crystal Merino at Marine Corps Air Station New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina (2021). Photo provided by Merino.
Merino, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served from 2018 to 2023 and is currently in the Marine’s Individual Ready Reserve, earned an associate degree at UC and is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in advanced medical imaging at UC. After transitioning out of active duty, she found UC’s Veterans Programs & Services office to be an invaluable resource in navigating her educational benefits and making the most of her government benefits.
“I felt incredibly supported when I came to UC,” said Merino. “From day one, I was able to connect with the office and understand the step-by-step process of how to apply my benefits to my education. It was a huge relief knowing that I had a team who understood what I needed.”
Merino now works as a student worker in the office, where she helps fellow veterans, military families and National Guard reservists understand their educational benefits and navigate the complexities of the Department of Veterans Affairs system. She emphasized how important it is to have a knowledgeable team to guide veterans through the often complicated process of utilizing their benefits.
UC has created an environment where veterans like me can succeed.
Crystal Merino, veteran and third-year UC student
UC Veterans Programs & Services ninth annual 9/11 Stair Run (2024). The run begins at 6:46 a.m. and lasts for 56 minutes — the amount of time people had to evacuate the south tower before it collapsed. Photo: Andrew Higley, UC Marketing + Brand.
UC’s office offers a range of services, from helping veterans enroll in classes and access benefits to offering mentorship and career guidance. One of the standout features is its collaborative approach with the VetSuccess on Campus (VSOC) team, ensuring veterans receive support not only on the UC side but also for their VA education benefits.
The VSOC, Merino says, “bridges the gap between what we need from the university and what the VA requires,” making it easier for veterans to focus on academics and transition successfully into civilian life.
The university is committed to providing exceptional service to the members of the military community, and their dependents, says UC program manager Harrison.
“UC has created an environment where veterans like me can succeed, and I’m grateful for the education, mentorship and guidance I’ve received,” Merino says. “It’s a place that truly understands the challenges we face, and they’re here to help us every step of the way.”
For questions about UC's Veterans Services program speak with a staff member at 513-556-6811, or by email at vetcert@uc.edu.
Featured image at top of 2024 Veterans Day ceremony on the UC campus. Photo: Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand.
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