Dr. James M. Smith President at Eastern Michigan University | Eastern Michigan University
Dr. James M. Smith President at Eastern Michigan University | Eastern Michigan University
Eastern Michigan University’s Veteran Student Support Services program has played a key role in helping military-connected students transition from university life to careers and further education. The program offers guidance, financial assistance, and access to professional opportunities for veterans enrolled at the university.
Wayne Doyle, director of Veteran Student Support Services at Eastern Michigan University, highlighted the institution’s efforts: “Our recognition as the No. 1 most veteran-friendly campus in Michigan reflects our deep commitment to supporting veterans as they transition back into civilian life,” said Doyle. “With the support of our faculty and staff, our program builds a strong military family at EMU and prepares student veterans for successful careers after graduation.”
Alumni such as Dale Justice and Jacob Golden have credited the program with shaping their academic and career paths. Justice graduated in April 2025 with a degree in political science and is now pursuing doctoral studies at Arizona State University. He described the importance of the center: “There was one place I knew that I could go, and it would be okay, and I would be set on the straight path,” said Justice. “That's what the Vet Center does, and it does it better than anywhere else I've been. There's a reason that EMU is top of the line for veterans. When you have leaders there like Colonel Doyle and Colonel Wise, that's what you can come to expect.”
Jacob Golden is currently attending law school at the University of Notre Dame. He noted how EMU’s veteran services helped him clarify his goals: “There was always a place to go to,” Golden said. "It's a nice study spot, and it’s nice to have a veteran vibe."
The Veteran Student Support Services program provides not only academic help but also mentorship opportunities that assist veterans in adjusting to civilian life after their service.
For more information about Eastern Michigan University's support for veterans or its academic offerings, visit its official website.
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