Our students come from an array of backgrounds and experiences. We strive to offer placements that can offer unique experiences and knowledge for students interested in learning about the military-connected populations. Tera Sparks completed her internship this Fall, supporting programs and services including our Veterans Day Event and our Food Pantry Initiative. We asked Tera […]
Dr. Brent Blackwell’s remarkable journey encompasses a transition from a frugal upbringing outside Chicago to esteemed accomplishments in the medical field. Joining the military at 17 year old, he sought direction and challenge, eventually serving as an Army Ranger combat medic in Afghanistan. His experiences there ignited a passion for medicine, leading him to the […]
The Chez Veterans Center regularly hosts interns from different programs across the college. During the Fall, we hosted Cristian Pulgarin for his placement as he worked to support our mission. We asked Cristian to share about himself, his experience as an intern at the CVC, and his professional goals. Cristian writes: My name is Cristian […]
After the success of last summer’s 2nd cohort of the Warrior-Scholar Project (WSP), featured on WCIA News, we are thrilled to be hosting our third cohort. This summer will be a one week STEM academic boot camp from July 18thru July 27 at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. During this academic boot camp, enlisted service […]
The Chez Veterans Center hosted a poignant exhibit, shedding light on the often-overlooked struggles of military veterans coping with PTSD, showcasing the diversity of their trauma experiences. Presented by the RUSH Road Home Program, this display challenges misconceptions surrounding military trauma, highlighting its varied impact across different roles and branches. Read more about the exhibit […]
The Chez Veterans Center hosted their annual Veterans Day Celebration featuring Keynote Speaker, Mr. Samuel K. Skinner. Read more about the event and the 2023 Keynote Speaker in these articles: Daily Illini: Chez Veterans Center Hosts Veterans Day Celebration Champaign-Urbana News-Gazette: UI grad who served as chief of staff to elder Bush sees importance of […]
Student Highlight: Cloie Widell (Army National Guard) The Chez Veterans Center staff are proud of the work of our students. Cloie Widell was a work study, Resident Assistant, and overall leader for many of our military-connected students this Fall semester. We asked Cloie to share about herself and ways she strives to have a positive […]
The Chez Veterans Center continues to grow programming to address students ever-changing needs. With our partnership with the VA Illiana Health Care System, we hosted two programs for students and community members. The SAVE Training provided an in-person course teaching attendees how to support a Veteran who may be in crisis or having suicidal thoughts. […]
Discover the remarkable journey of Joe Rank, a Vietnam War veteran and University of Illinois alumnus, in this compelling article. From navigating the complexities of military service during a turbulent era to becoming a key figure in the university’s history, Rank’s story unfolds with unexpected twists and turns. Dive into the challenges and triumphs of […]
Join us as we delve into the inspiring story of the honored official from Chez Veterans Center, who has been bestowed the prestigious role of Freedom Celebration grand marshal. Don’t miss this remarkable tale. Read the article by clicking here.