UMSL’s Veterans Center Manager Martina Meng—first‑gen American, college grad, and Missouri Army National Guard sergeant—explains how her team delivers veteran‑inclusive support that actually moves the needle: Guard/State TA plus GI Bill walkthroughs, “start 60 days before class” timing, and a community space that keeps you connected (and enrolled). She also shares the center’s growth and the inside story of returning to improve the very office she once used as a student.

Key takeaways:

• What “veteran‑inclusive” means beyond “veteran‑friendly.”

• One‑on‑one benefits sessions and end‑to‑end help each term.

• Why belonging beats burnout for retention.

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