AAACE 2021 Annual Conference

Inclusivity, Veteran, Military

This session recommends changing the narrative from veteran-friendly to veteran inclusive by establishing an environment where student veterans can embrace a sense of belonging, therefore providing positive results on enrollment, retention, and graduation.

The session provides insight into a uniquely underrepresented non-traditional student population on campus and their military-to-academic transition based on Schlossberg's Transition Theory and Phillips and Lincoln’s Veteran Critical Theory. Participants will discuss the difference between veteran-friendly and veteran inclusive in higher education institutions and further discuss implementation strategies for a veteran inclusive campus. The discussion aims to reduce the deficit mindset by providing context to common stereotypes and stigma's research identified associated with the military-connected student. By understanding the associated stigma, the participant can identify the negative impact on persistence and retention. The interactive session allows participants to explore and develop strategies to create and embrace veteran inclusivity on their respective campuses, demonstrating how diversity, inclusion, and equity efforts apply to all underrepresented student populations.