A Wellbeing Conversation with the Veterans Affairs Office

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter sits down with Russ Chavez, Director of the Veterans Affairs and Resource Center at South Dakota State University (SDSU), to discuss the crucial role the center plays in supporting student veterans, service members, and their families. Listeners will gain insight into the transition process for veterans entering higher education, common challenges student veterans face, and accessing wellbeing resources.   Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the mission and services of SDSU's Veterans Affairs and Resource Center in supporting student veterans, service members, and military-connected students. 2. Discuss the transition difficulties veterans may face when moving from military service to a university setting. 3. Identify mental health resources available to student veterans, including SDSU Counseling Services and VA-affiliated support.   Processing Questions: 1. How do events like Warrior Wellness Week and the Veterans Retreat contribute to the wellbeing of student veterans? 2. What mental health and wellbeing resources are available to veterans at SDSU, and how can they be accessed? 3. How can faculty and staff make their classrooms more welcoming and supportive for student veterans?