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, […]
After 10 impactful years of supporting student Veterans and military-connected students, the Chez Veterans Center celebrated its anniversary with a visit from the Chez family, who helped make the center a reality through Ron Chez’s generous lead gift. Though Ron could not attend, his family proudly witnessed how his legacy has transformed lives through education, […]
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 […]
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 […]
This spring, we were fortunate to host Megan Austra for an internship at the Chez Veterans Center. Megan, a recent graduate from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, earned her B.S. in Interdisciplinary Health Sciences with a concentration in Health Diversity and a minor in Public Health. Originally from Lansing, IL, Megan brought thoughtful energy and […]