Article Written By: Natalie Koldenhoven The Division of Disability Resources and Educational Services (DRES) is a nationally and internationally recognized research and service unit at UIUC’s College of Applied Health Sciences. DRES began in 1948 providing accessibility, inclusion and educational services to WWII Veterans who had been injured in the war. The research and services […]
At the Chez Veterans Center, our Student-Led Workshop Series gives students the opportunity to lead meaningful conversations that foster connection, learning, and growth. Recently, junior Communication major Natalie Koldenhoven led an engaging session titled Career Fair and Interview. The workshop invited students to explore the evolving world of career fairs, first impressions, and networking, sparking […]
Our Student-Led Workshop Series continues to shine a light on the powerful conversations happening within the Chez Veterans Center community. Recently, Grace Best, a sophomore Social Work student led an engaging session called Stress, Burnout, and the Transition Brain. This workshop explored how stress impacts both Veterans and students, and how small changes in perspective—and […]
As part of our Student-Led Workshop Series, we love highlighting the voices and experiences of those who lead discussions in our community. Recently, one of our student leaders, Zach Winthers, a junior majoring in Integrative Biology—led a workshop titled Preventing Burnout and End-of-Year Transition Planning. Here’s a look at their reflections and what they learned […]
In our Student-Led Workshop Series, military-connected students take the lead in sharing knowledge and experiences that help their peers succeed. Recently, Robert Chromniak, a senior majoring in Urban and Regional Policy and Planning, led a session called Financial Aid, Benefits, and Budgeting Essentials. The workshop focused on practical financial skills, from managing budgets to understanding […]
At the Chez Veterans Center, our Student-Led Workshop Series gives military-connected students the opportunity to guide meaningful conversations that build connection, understanding, and growth. Recently, a BSW graduate and first-year Master of Social Work student, Jacob Means, led a powerful session titled What Is Imposter Syndrome and How Do We Find a New Sense of […]
In July, the Chez Veterans Center hosted a congressional field hearing to address the growing challenges rural veterans face when trying to access VA health care. Lawmakers, advocates, and veterans shared solutions—from expanding broadband and telehealth services to improving outreach and transportation access. With nearly one-third of VA users living in rural areas, the hearing […]
The Chez Veterans Center at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has seen a 25.89% increase in military-connected student engagement in the first year of implementing a more personalized, case management-driven approach. With a renewed focus on individualized support, the center is connecting with students on a deeper level—helping them navigate both academic and personal challenges. […]
Article written by: Baileigh Hannah Dr. Michael Lotspeich-Yadao wears many hats—Research Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois’ Chez Veterans Center, Intelligence Operations Officer in the U.S. Army Reserve, and, more recently, a pandemic-era home renovator alongside his husband. But at the core of all these roles is a singular mission: to build bridges—between people, […]
Article written by: Baileigh Hannah At the heart of the Chez Veterans Center is Ingrid, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Assistant Director of Behavioral Health Programs. Ingrid plays a vital role in supporting military-connected students as they navigate the often complex journey of higher education and civilian life. A first-generation college student herself, […]