Oregon — The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs has awarded $800,000 in grants to expand campus veteran resource centers and strengthen services for student veterans at public universities and community colleges statewide.
The funding supports the Campus Veteran Resource Center Grant Program, designed to enhance existing campus services through innovative projects that help veterans transition from military service to academic life. ODVA said the goal is to improve outcomes for student veterans by expanding access to resources, support systems, and community connections.
Nineteen of Oregon’s 24 eligible institutions applied for funding—an all-time high for the program—and all 19 applicants received a share of the available funds. The participating colleges and universities span the state, including Blue Mountain Community College, Central Oregon Community College, Chemeketa Community College, Clackamas Community College, Columbia Gorge Community College, Eastern Oregon University, Klamath Community College, Lane Community College, Linn-Benton Community College, Mt. Hood Community College, Oregon Institute of Technology, Oregon State University, Portland Community College, Portland State University, Rogue Community College, Southern Oregon University, Southwestern Oregon Community College, the University of Oregon, and Western Oregon University.
“This level of participation demonstrates the strong, continued partnership between ODVA and Oregon’s higher education community in ensuring veterans have access to the tools and support they need to thrive,” the department said.
Applications were reviewed by a committee made up of veterans service officers, current and former student veterans, education professionals, and others who work directly with veteran communities.
“Student veterans enrich our campuses and our communities with their leadership, discipline, and life experience,” said Dr. Nakeia Daniels, ODVA director. “Yet we know that navigating higher education after military service can bring unique challenges. Veteran resource centers provide a place where student veterans can connect with one another, access benefits and support, and build the foundation for success—both in school and beyond the uniform.”
Funded projects vary by campus but include support for veteran coordinators and outreach positions, creation of peer mentor and peer support programs, technology and equipment purchases, and initiatives addressing food insecurity, mental health, and transportation. Additional grants will help campuses host veteran-focused events, ceremonies, career fairs, skill-building workshops, and outreach efforts targeting underrepresented student veteran populations.
More information about the program is available on ODVA’s website.
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