April Newsletter

Hey everyone,

This is John. I wanted to add a personal touch to this newsletter as I haven't been able to interact with our student veteran community much this semester given the state of the world right now.

I hope that everyone is holding up out there. And if you're not, that's ok, too - our office is still operational and is standing by to support however you need us to.

I wanted to pass along some quick updates and also extend an offer to anyone who might want to connect via Zoom. I'd be more than happy to connect just to chat or answer any student veteran-related questions that you might have. Feel free to send me a note if you'd like to schedule something.

I'll be sending another newsletter out in the coming weeks with some end-of-semester updates. Until then, please stay in touch and reach out if we can do anything to support you or your families. Stay healthy, everyone.

Job Opportunities: Graduate Assistantships

We have two job opportunities to share with you all. The first is for the Graduate Assistantship with the Office of Student Veterans. We are looking to fill this position in the coming weeks with work to tentatively begin by July 1, 2020. This is the position that John currently holds - please reach out to him or Grace if you have interest in applying or any other questions.

The second job is a work-study position that will focus on all policies and procedures relevant to students receiving GI Bill benefits through the VA. The graduate assistant who fills this position will split their time between the Registrar's Office and the Office of Student Veterans. Applicants must be using VA Education Benefits during the semesters when they would hold this position. The tentative start date for this position will be during the Fall 2020 semester.

Please note that given the current circumstances, start dates for both of these positions are subject to change. Again, if there are any questions please reach out!

Blue Devil Cares

From the Office of Student Affairs:

The newest in a line of service offerings through CAPS, Blue Devils Care includes two types of remote services for students. If you're feeling overwhelmed, you will be able to talk to a licensed mental health provider directly from your device. Blue Devils Care provides on-demand mental health support and gives students a safe space to talk about anything at any time (anxiety surrounding COVID-19, relationships, sadness, isolation and loneliness, etc.).

Any full or part-time degree-seeking undergraduate, graduate, or professional student may use these services. Click the link to find out more.

Event: Coronavirus and the Military

From the Duke Science & Society:

"Recent reports have highlighted the unique challenges the pandemic poses for our nation's military. News of infections on U.S. Navy ships and of a VA Healthcare System stretched even thinner raise concern for those in service to our country. How are military leaders protecting and supporting military personnel, veterans, and their families while preserving the United States Armed Forces? How do their decisions differ from those made for civilians?

Join Duke Science & Society and our expert panel as we discuss the effect of the current global public health crisis on military readiness, veterans healthcare, and military families."

Moderators and Panelists:

Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff: General Martin Dempsey (Ret.)

Major General Charles Dunlap, Jr. USAF (Ret.)

Deputy Director, Duke Science & Society Buz Waitzkin

RSVP Here! Event is on Monday April 20, 2020 from 12:30-1:30pm (EDT)

Ways to Connect

Phone: 919-613-445
Office Email: veterans@studentaffairs.duke.edu
GI Bill Benefits Email: veteranseducation@duke.edu
Facebook Group: "Duke Veterans"
Facebook Page: "Duke Student Veterans"
Instagram: "DukeStudentVets"

As a Reminder

Duke's Office of Student Veterans is here to support you – our students who have served or who are serving in the Armed Forces – and your families. As part of Duke's Division of Student Affairs, Duke Student Veterans offers support, resources, and community to our Student Vets, their families, and allies. Duke offers support through the Counseling and Psychological Services office and immediate help is available through the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255, Press 1). As always, we are here if anything is needed.