proud alumnus of the University of West Florida (UWF), and Dr. Hira

engage in a heartfelt conversation with Lori Milkeris, the Director of

UWF’s Military and Veteran Resource Center. Lori, an Air Force veteran

and mental health technician, shares her compelling journey from

military service to her impactful role in higher education.
Lori

recounts her transition out of the Air Force in 1998, reflecting on the

challenges of reentering civilian life, navigating education as a single

mother, and overcoming the mental and emotional adjustments required.

These experiences laid the foundation for her passion to help others.

Starting as a VA work-study student, Lori identified gaps in support for

military-connected students, particularly those facing academic and

emotional challenges. Her commitment to early intervention and holistic

support propelled her career, eventually leading to her role as

director.
The Military and Veteran Resource Center at UWF serves

over 2,500 military-connected students, with 1,800 actively using VA

educational benefits. Lori shares how the center fosters a community of

support through initiatives like a swim team mentorship program,

semester checkpoints, and the Pensacola Veteran Support Organization

Network, which connects students to a wealth of resources via a

comprehensive 58-page guide.
Listeners will learn about the

center’s welcoming environment, complete with essential services like

snacks, coffee, computers, and printing, as well as its dedication to

organizing events such as Veterans Day and Memorial Day observances that

build camaraderie and connection. Lori also emphasizes the significance

of Pensacola’s military-rich community, home to five nearby bases, and

how it enhances opportunities for veterans.
This episode is a

powerful reminder of the importance of persistence and community in

supporting veterans’ transitions to academic and civilian life. Lori’s

insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for educators,

administrators, and anyone invested in the success of military-connected

individuals.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that

highlights the transformative impact of veteran support programs at UWF

and beyond. Tune in now!

https://uwf.edu/

https://uwf.edu/academic-affairs/departments/military-veteran-resource-center/

#vetsos #VeteranSupport #HigherEducation #MilitaryTransition #UWFVeterans #HolisticSupport