The Ohio State University at Lima
IN-25: Innovation B

Returning to college or beginning college for the first time after Armed Services deployment can be a stressful and highly frustrating experience for some veterans. Veterans coming out of extended periods of exposure to severe emotional or mental trauma and highly stressful working and living conditions may find the transition to college life and academic demands a difficult personal challenge. The Ohio State at Lima strives to provide support for student veterans and give them access to resources to successfully transition to like as a student. A group of student veterans demonstrated a need for an isolated spot from the hustle and bustle of campus life and for an opportunity to socialize and reflect. We equipped a small room with furniture, a small refrigerator, and a coffee machine. In the room, we offer free coffee and snacks. Additionally, there is a veteran’s student book exchange where the student veterans can take or leave textbooks for classes. Currently, the campus is in the process of expanding the space. The space connects student veterans with access to campus resources, including the Lima Counseling and Consultation services, Office for Disability Services, The Office for Military and Veterans Services, and Lima Campus Veteran Student Advocates. The initiative is an example of how OSU-Lima ensures we provide our increasing population of military and veteran students with help accessing their educational benefits and the university resources they need for academic success.