In our latest episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Joshua Rider, Executive Director for the Center for Adult and Veteran Services at Kent State University. As a two-time graduate of Kent State, Joshua shared his journey into higher education, the impact of veteran services, and how the university is shaping student success for military-connected learners.
Joshua Rider’s Path to Veteran Services at Kent State
Joshua's journey into higher education wasn’t traditional. After earning a history degree, he worked in retail management before realizing he wanted a career with greater impact. Encouraged by mentors, he pursued a Master’s in Higher Education Administration and Student Personnel, which opened doors to student services.
His introduction to veteran services came when he was assigned GI Bill processing while working in federal financial aid. At the time, Kent State University had a relatively small population of student veterans. However, when the Post-9/11 GI Bill was introduced, the number of veteran students on campus quadrupled, prompting the university to expand its offerings.
Recognizing the need for dedicated support, Kent State combined benefits processing with adult student services, ultimately forming the Center for Adult and Veteran Services (CAVS) in 2010. Joshua has been instrumental in shaping these programs for over 15 years, ensuring that veterans receive the resources they need to thrive in higher education.
Kent State University
As a military-friendly university, Kent State is home to over 1,000 military-connected students, with around 800 actively using VA benefits at any given time. The university offers comprehensive veteran services that ensure service members, veterans, and their families can successfully transition into college life.
Kent State's services include:
- Centralized benefits processing to simplify GI Bill and tuition assistance.
- Dedicated veteran programs at regional campuses to support students in diverse locations.
- Career services tailored for veterans, ensuring smooth transitions into civilian careers.
- Mental health support through partnerships with the VA and Student Accessibility Services.
- Community-building events to help veterans establish new support networks.
By offering these services, Kent State provides holistic support that extends beyond just financial aid, ensuring that military students feel at home on campus.
How Kent State University Supports Military-Connected Students
Kent State follows a hybrid model for veteran students, balancing centralized benefits processing with localized engagement opportunities.
1. Centralized Benefits Processing
Kent State handles GI Bill benefits, military tuition assistance, and other veteran benefits through a dedicated online portal. This streamlined approach eliminates confusion and ensures students get the financial support they need without unnecessary red tape.
2. Localized Services at Regional Campuses
Kent State University has eight regional campuses across Northeast Ohio, each with its own student veteran population. Instead of forcing a one-size-fits-all approach, the university allows individual campuses to tailor services to fit their unique student communities.
For example:
- Urban campuses may focus on career transition programs and networking events.
- Rural campuses might offer family-friendly veteran events and community-building programs.
- Suburban campuses could prioritize mental health resources and mentorship programs.
This approach ensures that Kent State’s veteran services remain flexible and responsive to the unique needs of different students.
Veteran Support Beyond the Classroom
Kent State’s support goes beyond academics—they emphasize community, wellness, and career development.
1. Family-Friendly Veteran Services
Many student veterans are parents and caregivers, and Kent State recognizes the importance of being family-friendly. Programs are designed to help military-connected students balance education and family responsibilities, including:
- Family-inclusive events that allow veterans to involve their spouses and children in campus life.
- Access to child-friendly study spaces and campus resources.
- Scholarship opportunities for military spouses and dependents.
2. Mental Health and Accessibility Services for Veterans
Kent State partners with the VA and Student Accessibility Services to ensure veterans have access to:
- Counseling and mental health support.
- Disability accommodations for veterans with visible and invisible wounds.
- Peer support networks and veteran mentorship programs.
For many student veterans, navigating mental health and disability services can be overwhelming. Kent State takes a proactive approach, ensuring that veterans receive the support they need without having to seek it out alone.
3. Veteran Career Services and Networking
Transitioning from the military to civilian careers can be challenging. That’s why Kent State’s veteran services include career coaching, employer networking, and resume workshops tailored specifically for veterans.
The university also offers programs in high-demand fields, such as:
- Aeronautics and Flight Training (Kent State has its own airport!).
- Education and Human Services.
- Fashion Design (one of the top programs in the country).
- STEM fields and business management.
For veterans looking to build long-term careers, Kent State provides the education and support needed for success.
Why Veterans Should Choose Kent State University
For veterans looking for a military-friendly university with strong veteran services, Kent State is an excellent choice. Here’s why:
✅ Comprehensive Veteran Services – From GI Bill processing to career coaching, Kent State ensures that student veterans have all the support they need.
✅ Flexible Learning Options – Kent State offers multiple campuses, online learning, and part-time options for veterans balancing school, work, and family.
✅ Strong Military Community – With over 1,000 military-connected students, Kent State fosters peer support networks and community engagement opportunities.
✅ Career-Ready Programs – With top-tier academic programs and veteran-specific career services, Kent State sets veterans up for long-term success.
Closing Thoughts
At VET S.O.S., we are committed to highlighting the best veteran services available to military-connected students. Kent State University stands out as a leader in veteran education and support, offering a holistic approach that ensures academic success, career readiness, and community integration.
A huge thank you to Joshua Rider for sharing his insights. His work at Kent State’s Center for Adult and Veteran Services demonstrates how universities can effectively support veterans in higher education.
For veterans considering higher education, Kent State is an outstanding choice that offers tailored veteran services, academic excellence, and a supportive community.
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