Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – Arkansas State University has been named a top school for military veterans by U.S. Veterans Magazine.
The work done by the Beck Center for Veterans is one part of A-State’s broader effort to support veteran and military-connected students, contributing to the university’s recognition as a top school for veterans. Alumni Buddy and Charlotte Beck provided the initial funding to get the center into operation.
“The university has gone above and beyond in advocating for veteran students,” said Johnathon A. Mullins, a graduate student at the Beck Center for Veterans. “I do not necessarily think that is exclusively because they are veterans. My impression is that we have people in positions of authority who genuinely want to do the right thing by students.”
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Mullins, a veteran who works at the center, said receiving this dedication means a lot to them and the work they do every day.
“For the Beck Center, the publicity that comes with the designation is important,” Mullins added. “Despite having this resource on campus, many veterans who do not use Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits, and even some of those who do, are not aware of everything available to them through the center. The more our name is out there, the more students become aware of us, and ultimately that helps us fulfill our goal of helping veterans stay in school and successfully navigate their academic journey.”
More than 1,000 military veterans have earned associate, bachelor and technical degrees since the center was formed nearly two decades ago.
“In my experience, when we have brought a legitimate student problem to senior university leadership, I have not seen them simply refer that student back down the chain. They have tried to help solve the problem,” Mullins continued.
“That is probably what I would most want a future student veteran to know about A-State and the Beck Center. You do not have to know exactly who to call, which office handles something, or even what question you need to ask. Come and see us. If we cannot solve the problem ourselves, we will help you find the people who can.”
To qualify for assistance through the Beck Center, veterans must provide their DD214 or other proof of combat-era military service. The staff at the center, including Jana Haskins, director, will help from there. “We have staff specifically available to assist veteran students, both traditional and online, with their education benefits, as well as having a dedicated space for student veterans to call their own,” said Mullins.
He said that since its opening, the Beck Center has grown into a robust resource for not only those on campus, but for the veteran community in the area.
“Everything we offer through the Beck Center is available free of charge. We also try to make it a place where students actually want to spend time. They can come in and use the printer, find a quiet place to study, or just lie back on one of the couches and watch a movie between classes.”
The Beck Center holds fundraisers during the year, including a golf tournament and a 5K.
To learn more about the services that are provided by the Beck Center for Veterans, one may call 870-972-2624 or email BeckCenter4vets@AState.edu.
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