June 19, 2025
Rooted in Service, Grounded in Support: Ingrid Wheeler’s Story
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, […]
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June 05, 2025
From Combat Boots to Campus: Jason Sakowski’s Story
Article written by: Baileigh Hannah Meet Jason, a member of the amazing staff here at the Chez Veterans Center. He served for eight years in the Marine Corps and went on two combat deployments: one to Iraq and one to Afghanistan. Jason then retired as a Sergeant First Class after twelve years in the Illinois […]
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May 29, 2025
Andy Bender’s Journey to Empower Veterans
Article written by: Baileigh Hannah Meet Andy Bender! He grew up in a small town in northern New York, where the values of hard work, service, and community shaped the foundation of his life. After earning a bachelor’s degree in history from Canisius College in Buffalo, Andy went on to complete a Master of Public […]
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May 08, 2025
Bridging the Gap: Garrett Anderson’s Mission to Empower Student Veterans
Article written by: Baileigh Hannah Meet Garrett Anderson! Originally from Olive Branch, Illinois, and raised in Bellflower, Garrett brings a deep sense of dedication and lived experience to his work with military-connected students. As a student, Garrett began his academic journey at Parkland College before earning his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Illinois State […]
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