1st Edition
Supporting Military-Connected College Students Applying Theory to Student Affairs Practice
This valuable resource provides an up-to-date and accessible evidence-based guide to help ensure student veteran and military-connected student success in higher education institutions. Chapter authors provide historical and contemporary contexts of student veterans and military-connected students in higher education, discuss issues of intersectionality and mental health, and share student-centered best practices for success. Grounded in evidence-based theory and using an assets-based approach, this book explores useful identity development models as well as unique considerations of this student group. Compiled from the most respected experts in the field in addition to newer innovative practitioners, this volume is an accessible guide for higher education and student affairs practitioners, faculty, and graduate students who form the next generation of support.
1. Introduction: A Student-Centered Perspective on Supporting Military-Connected College Students
Abby Kinch
Part 1: The Military and Higher Education in the United States
2. A History of Veterans and Military-Connected Students in Higher Education: An Assurance of the Satisfactory
James W. Thomas
3. The Culture and Distinctive Experiences of U.S. Military Veterans and Service Members Entering Higher Education
Deborah E. Lucas and Angela Minichiello
4. The G.I. Bill and the Pursuit of the American Dream: Understanding Veteran and Military Education Benefits
Paul R. Lawrence
Part 2: Identity Development Models and Frameworks
5. Using Intersectionality as a Lens to Understand the Multifaceted Identities of Student Veterans
Michael Lotspeich-Yadao and Josh Kinchen
6. Impact of Identity as Student Veteran on the College Experience and Implications for Student Success
Kevin C. Jones
7. Veteran Critical Theory: Analyzing and Advocating for Student Veterans in Higher Education
Glenn Allen Phillips
8. Addressing the Needs of Military Family Member Students: The Hidden Faces of Service
Karla Payne and Janine Wert
9. Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard Students: Supporting Those Who Learn While Serving
Glen R. Downing
Part 3: Student Success Outcomes
10. Mental Health Support for Student Veterans and Military-Connected Populations in Higher Education: A Brief Review and Path Forward
Katherine Selber and Will Selber
11. Models of Support: Enhancing Success for Military-Connected Students in Higher Education
Wayne N. Taylor and Reneé Amboy
12. Advising the Military-Affiliated Student: Keeping Promises
Seth Gordon
13. Transitioning In and Out of College: Building Veteran-Ready Campuses and Communities
R.J. Jenkins and Michael Brown
Part 4: Moving Forward: What’s Next for the Military-Connected Population?
14. Unique Considerations for the Military-Connected Population
Denise Boren
15. Assessment of Military-Connected Programs
Michael Fried
16. The Future of Military-Connected Student Enrollment
Chris A. Cate
17. Conclusion: Future Directions
Paul A. Tontz and Monteigne S. Long
Biography
Paul A. Tontz is Clinical Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator of Higher and Postsecondary Education at Arizona State University, USA.
Monteigne S. Long is Director of Veteran and Military Services for The Texas A&M University System, USA.
"Supporting Military-Connected Students in Higher Education offers a comprehensive, practitioner-focused exploration of how colleges and universities can better serve veterans, active-duty service members, and military families. Drawing on student voices, historical analysis, and critical frameworks, the book bridges theory and practice to illuminate the unique challenges and strengths of this growing population. From policy and identity development to campus support and future directions, the authors equip educators and leaders with the tools to create inclusive and equity-driven learning environments."
Marybeth Gasman, Samuel DeWitt Proctor Endowed Chair in Education & Distinguished Professor, Rutgers University, USA
"What Monteigne and Paul have accomplished is powerful: they bring together a diverse range of voices from across the veteran landscape to demonstrate that meaningful change is only possible through collaboration. By weaving compelling case studies together with questions posed and thoughtful reflections, this book invites readers to engage deeply-not just as individuals, but as members of institutions and communities -- to serve military-connected students better. At the center of the book are stories of student veterans and their families-a reminder that accountability for integration doesn't rest with the individuals transitioning to campus life, but with the colleges and universities they attend. Whether you're new to working with the military-connected population or have worked in the field for decades, this book serves as a useful resource to learn, reflect, and take action, or to reinvigorate your dedicated practice."
Beth Morgan, Director of Higher Education Transition and Partnerships, Columbia University, USA
"As a veteran and higher education advocate, I found this volume both timely and essential. Its thoughtful editors bring together a veritable who’s who of experts with experience across research, policy, and practice in support of student veterans, military-connected students, their families, caregivers, and survivors. Grounded in lived experience and full of actionable insights, this book is a critical resource for anyone committed to building inclusive, informed, and empowering educational environments for those who have served."
Jared Lyon, National President and CEO, Student Veterans of America, USA
