In this compelling episode, we bring you a second live panel recorded at the North Carolina Service Members, Veterans and their Families (SMVF) Network Summit in Raleigh.

Moderated by Peter Tillman, Chief Operating Officer and Associate Director for the Durham VA Health Care System, this conversation centers on suicide prevention and features a mix of subject matter experts and veterans with lived experience who are working to make a difference.

Together, they discuss the challenges, realities, and critical strategies for preventing suicide within the SMVF population - highlighting the importance of community, connection, and culturally competent care.

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In this special episode of the Governor’s Institute podcast for Service Members, Veterans, and their Families (SMVF), we bring you a dynamic panel discussion recorded live at the North Carolina SMVF Network Summit in Raleigh. Featuring experts from across the military and civilian sectors, our panel dives deep into the complex realities facing veterans today, from housing instability where simply finding shelter isn't enough, to the silent struggle of social isolation that can lead to devastating mental health outcomes. What makes this conversation particularly valuable is how it moves beyond identifying problems to exploring practical, implementable solutions.

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Dr. Cierra Griffin, Executive Director of Adult Learners and Military Students at Fayetteville State University, and Nick Drake, Director of Military and Veteran Services at NC State University, both stress the importance of financial planning for military students. Dr. Griffin encourages students to utilize their service history to enhance marketability through education and emphasizes the need to consider expenses such as rent and textbooks. Nick highlights the significance of knowing and utilizing available benefits, such as Chapter 30 for active duty students, and making strategic decisions about education savings. Both advocate for mentorship and community resources to guide military students in navigating financial challenges and planning for successful educational and career outcomes.

NC STRIVE is hosted by Jon Camp and produced by Earfluence.

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Brad Wrenn and Siobhan Norris, both seasoned advocates for student Veterans, bring a wealth of experience from their military and higher education backgrounds to their roles as program managers for military and Veterans education at the UNC system. Brad believes that support for student Veterans should extend beyond academic life to encompass broader community engagement, emphasizing partnerships with nonprofits and the translation of military training into course credit. Similarly, Siobhan underscores the importance of comprehensive support services both on and off campus, advocating for community involvement and career services to facilitate successful transitions for student Veterans. They stress the need for collaborative efforts and equitable resources to create a supportive environment for military-affiliated students across all educational institutions.

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NC STRIVE is hosted by Jon Camp and produced by Earfluence.

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Dr. Pamela Baldwin and Dr. Cheryl Harris-Curtis passionately advocate for supporting female veterans in higher education by addressing their unique needs and challenges. Dr. Baldwin, leading veteran services at Fayetteville State University, emphasizes the importance of tailored support such as childcare assistance and intentional training to better understand and serve female veterans. Dr. Harris-Curtis, with a wealth of experience in educational enhancement services, underscores the need for effective communication and the integration of veteran feedback to create inclusive environments. Together, they highlight the critical role of faculty and staff training, as well as the involvement of student veterans in refining programs, to ensure a supportive and empowering academic journey for female veterans.

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NC STRIVE is hosted by Jon Camp and produced by Earfluence.

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Nick Drake, the director of military and veteran services at North Carolina State University, and Kevin Rumley, program director at the Buncombe County Veterans Treatment Court, share valuable perspectives on the challenges of transitioning from the military to higher education. Nick's journey from the army reserves to academia has equipped him with the knowledge and experience to guide military students through the academic landscape. He emphasizes the importance of providing support and services tailored to the unique needs of military students, from pre-service decision-making to career placement. Kevin, a Marine veteran who overcame injury in combat and addiction to pursue higher education, stresses the significance of mentorship and community for veterans navigating the cultural differences of academic life. Their insights underscore the need for universities to invest in resources and programs that support military students in their transition to higher education.

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NC STRIVE is hosted by Jon Camp and produced by Earfluence.

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Brad Wrenn and Abby Kinch are dedicated advocates for student veterans, each bringing a wealth of experience and insight into higher education for this unique community. Brad, who served as a meteorologist in the Army and now specializes in executive education and leadership, emphasizes the importance of viewing student veterans as assets and bridging the gap between civilian and military student communities. Abby, a former enlistee post-9/11 and current chief of staff at Student Veterans of America, underscores the necessity of institutional support, such as a single point of contact and veteran-specific orientation programs, to navigate the complexities of higher education. Both Brad and Abby highlight the need for tailored resources, including childcare, financial aid, and comprehensive advising, to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for student veterans.
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NC STRIVE is hosted by Jon Camp and produced by Earfluence.

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