Article written by: Baileigh Hannah Meet Dr. Scott Althaus, a Veteran, professor, researcher, and passionate advocate for military-connected students at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. For nearly three decades, Dr. Althaus has brought the insight and discipline of his military background into both the classroom and campus leadership. As a professor in the Department of […]
For many Veterans, transitioning from military service to civilian life presents a range of challenges—especially when stepping into the world of higher education. For Javen Boettcher, a student Veteran at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the path from the Marine Corps to studying Computer Engineering has been marked by persistence, passion, and purpose. “I served […]
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, […]
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 […]
A look at the first year of comprehensive case management at the Chez Veterans Center The 2024-2025 academic year marked a pivotal moment for military-connected students at the University of Illinois. For the first time, the Chez Veterans Center implemented a comprehensive case management model—and the results tell a powerful story of connection, support, and […]
The Chez Veterans Center is proud to be featured in the College of Applied Health Sciences blog as we celebrate a decade of impact, growth, and community. The article highlights our 10-year anniversary celebration, honoring the dedicated staff, student veterans, families, and campus partners who have shaped our mission. Take a moment to read about […]
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 […]
Mayra Ortega’s journey from Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods to nursing clinicals and military drills on the Urbana campus is nothing short of inspiring. A proud first-generation college student, Mayra enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard at just 17 years old. As a 68W Combat Medic, she has spent her entire military career in an MP […]