From the military to college and beyond: Growing a culturally sensitive program to support veteran success

This paper addresses the unique characteristics of veterans and the role military culture continues to play for post-service veterans. We describe a series of programs developed to provide critically important assistance to current and recent student veterans by connecting them to a network of veteran peers and mentors. Through a discussion of psychological distress and healing, stigma, and the challenges of college, we hoped to galvanize student veterans to recognize the value of psychological well-being. We additionally offer suggestions, based on years of work with veterans, on the development of programs and the provision of clinical services for the veteran community.