3. The 2016 Central Washington University PRSSA Bateman team compiled research and discovered compel-
ling statistical results on not only the Student Veterans of America organization but also the student veteran
population of CWU.
The goal of #CWUSVWeek was to bridge the gap in understanding between non-veteran and veteran stu-
dents, highlight services and resources available to students and enlighten potentially interested individuals
on the benefits of starting a Student Veterans
of America chapter.
As a team we recognized SVA’s mission as an
overarching statement that extends past the
organization and toward veteran support as a
whole. For this reason we knew that no matter
what our campaign, we needed to focus on
developing the awareness of resources, support
and advocacy here at CWU.
As a group of five senior public relations students, we recognized that we did not have all the resources need-
ed to accomplish this on their own. For this reason partnerships were forged with the Central Washington
University Veteran Center, Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement, and the John Ford Clymer Muse-
um and Gallery.
After sufficient research and interviews with thought leaders within the veteran community of Ellensburg we
decided to move forward with a weeklong campaign featuring events targeting different events.
Situational Analysis
We created a SWOT and PEST analysis in order to evaluate our client and possibilities for future campaign.
Executive Summary
“To provide Military veterans
the resources, support, and
advocacy needed to succeed
in higher education and after
graduation.”
SWOT Analysis
Strength:
• Nearly 1300 chapters
• A lot fo big name partners and sponsors
• By Veternas for veterans
• established social media platforms
• Utilize and inform publics about the legistlation
that supports SVA mission and cause.
Weakness
• Confusing and outdated information on the
website.
• A lot of social media but not a lot of engage-
ment.
Opportunities:
• Conferense- gives members and potential mem-
bers the opportunity to remain invested and
engaged.
• Seek out schools with large student veteran pop-
ulation
• Veterans coming home from war and support
systems once they are hot topics that people en-
joy talking about and debating.
Threats:
• Other veteran associations
• continuous recruitment
• people who dont see need to offer support sys-
tems to veterans once they return from war.
• institutions not recognizing the need to address-
needs of non traditional students.
4. Research
The Student Veterans of America identifies a need for
support, advocacy, and awareness for student veterans.
Some student veterans are unaware of their resources
on campus and in the communities; some are afraid to
ask, and others find difficulties relating to traditional
students.
Finding out what the perception of student veterans
on Central Washington University campus was one of
the preliminary questions that needed to be answered
before solidifying any plans for our campaign launch. Student Veterans of America’s mission is “to provide
military veterans with the resources, support, and advocacy needed to succeed in higher education and fol-
lowing graduation,” this has been the foundation to the research and planning for our campaign. Qualitative
and quantitative research was conducted to gage the perception, support, and knowledge of resources that
are on campus and in the community.
Secondary Research:
The CWU Bateman Team was able to determine the right elements to include in their campaign and the
strategies to implement them by researching several community support efforts towards veterans, the post
9/11 G.I. Bill, SVA programs, and partnerships.
Social Media Campaigns
• Creating a hashtag campaign is one way to have engagement on social media platforms.
• The hashtag creates a channel for information and conversation regarding that topic or product and
makes it easier for consumers to participate in the conversation.
• Successful social media campaigns use the hashtag. Two viral campaigns in 2015 was #IwillProtectYou
and #shareacoke. Both are great examples of a successful hashtag.
Florida International University Success with SVA
• FIU SVA hosts many events that bring the tradition student culture to include the uniqueness of a veter-
an.
PEST Analysis
Political
• National issue
• Heavily effected by current legislation
Economical
• Lower middle class income or below upon re-
turning home from war
• Grants and scholarships to aid student veterans
Social
• Huge corporate partners
• Issue can create social tension on campuses
• Hard to get veterans to talk about their struggles
Technological
• As an organization staying on top of social tech-
nological recruitment trends
• Avenue to keep organization tight nationwide
• Social media
5. • Social media activity is a key to success, by posting events and helpful information about student veterans
helps connect with both the veteran and nonveteran communities and bring awareness.
• Attending national events is a tool the chapter uses to stay connected to other chapters and up to date on
the resources that they can bring back to their fellow members and veteran community on campus.
Post 9/11 G.I. Bill
• This program provides benefits that include tuition & fees to the school, monthly housing allowance,
books and supplies stipend.
• Those who have served a minimum of 90 active duty days or anyone who has been honorably dis-
charged from active duty for diability after a minimum of 30 days of active duty after September 10,
2001 may be eligible for these benefits.
• College, Universities, trade schools, on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and flight schools all potentially
qualify for the program.
Primary Research:
After gaining a strong background of SVA, their chapters, veteran events, and other secondary research we
moved forward with primary research. The tools we used to conduct this research was online survey of 232
people, which was provided in the community and sitting with computers in the Student Union Recreation
Center on campus, and focus groups.
Survey
• 52 percent of respondents know
student veterans.
• 34 percent of respondents have
heard of SVA
• 48 percent of respondents feel that
Central Washington University pro-
vides adequate support for vets.
• 55 percent of respondents feel that
the Ellensburg community provides
adequate support for veterans.
• 84 percent of respondents were
students
• 42 percent male, 58 percent females
• 19 percent veterans
Traditional Student Focus Group
• 8 percent know what the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill is.
• 66 percent described their transition to CWU as pretty easy.
• 83 percent said the most helpful department on campus for them was the financial aid office.
• 90 percent of participants stated that the difference they see between their transition and that of a non-
traditional student is the age difference.
Student Veteran Focus Group
• “If you were to join a SVA chapter on campus what would you expect to gain from it?” Comradery
6. • 98 percent of participants described the Veterans Center being the most helpful department on campus.
• 80 percent of participants described their transition to CWU as being more difficult to that of a tradi-
tional student due to age and experience differences, as well as not being as involved socially with their
peers.
Key Messages
1. Student Veterans Can Succeed!
• With proper knowledge of resources and support available to them, a student veteran’s transi-
tion from military to campus life can be made simpler.
2. Student Veterans have a unique experience!
• The experiences of a student veteran compared to that of a traditional student differ greatly.
Student veterans have military experience prior to college while most of their student peers
recently graduated high school and have little to no job experience.
3. CWU supports its Student Veterans!
• CWU students, faculty and staff recognize the hardships student veterans have faced to secure
our freedoms and are aware of the difficult transition from military to campus life.
Target Audiences
Primary Audiences
• CWU Student Veterans
• CWU Traditional Students
Secondary Audience
• CWU Faculty and Staff’
• Kittitas Valley Community
Challenges &
Opportunities
Challenge #1- Through initial conversations and research we discovered that the veteran community would
not find us credible due to lack of experience.
Opportunity #1- Sought out partnerships with thought leaders within the student veteran community in-
cluding: CWU Veteran Center, Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement, and The John Ford Clymer
Musuem and Gallery.
Challenge #2- 37% of the surveyed sample population felt that CWU minimally supports student veterans.
Opportunity #2- Showcase the resources and opportunities available to student veterans attending CWU.
Challenge #3- CWU does not have an SVA chapter and is hesitant to establish a student veteran organiza-
tion based on past experience.
Opportunity #3- Reach out to current student veterans and gauge interest.
7. Objectives, Strategies, Rationales, and Tactics
Objective 1: Increase student veterans awareness of the resources, support, and advocacy offered within the
CWU and local community by 10 percent.
Strategy 1: Create a public relations campaign that relates to the CWU student veteran population.
Rationale: According to our research many student veterans are unaware of the resources, support, or advo-
cacy that is available to them on campus and within our community. Therefore, we identified an opportunity
to educate the student veteran population.
Tactic 1: Create an engaging week of events. Focus group and survey results showed that there was a
broad range of subject interest regarding student veterans. In order to cover all topics and offer more
opportunities for attendance, we expanded our idea of hosting a single event to hosting a full week of
events. We decided to name it “CWU Student Veteran Week.”
Tactic 2: Kick off the week by hosting a resource fair on campus for student veterans. We invited
veteran resources and support services from around Washington State to join us in the Student Union
building on the Monday of our week. This will give all of those resources the appropriate venue to
reach out to veterans here at CWU.
Tactic 3: Find a way to show student veterans they are supported and advocated. On the Wednesday
of our week, our idea is to display a blank canvas outside of the Student Union building and write
at the top “I Support Student Veterans.” We wanted to see how many students and faculty members
would sign or write messages on this blank canvas, in which they show their support. The canvas is to
be displayed all day long.
Strategy 2: Reinforce SVA’s and our campaign’s key messages through strategic media placement at CWU
and within the Ellensburg community.
Rationale: By dispersing key messages across several different communication mediums our student veterans
will have a greater opportunity to engage with our campaign as well as gain the knowledge needed to suc-
ceed in higher education.
Tactic 1: Create a visually appealing logo. The veteran in the graduation cap represents both the mil-
itary and academic aspects of the SVA organization. The mountains, trees, and windmills are repre-
sentative of our regional environment and personalizes our campaign to the Ellensburg community.
Tactic 2: Maintain a consistent brand image. All materials will include campaign and client names,
logos, and consistent of red, white, and blue color schemes across all social media platforms, press
releases, and published work.
Tactic 3: Choose a campaign name. The week was named “CWU Student Veterans Week” on cam-
pus, but we wanted our campaign to have a quick and catchy slogan or phrase that everyone could
use. A trending hashtag seemed to be the best option with the rise of popularity in hashtags lately.
#CWUSVWeek became our trending hashtag to be used by our team and the community throughout
our implementation period.
Objective 1 Outcome: EXCEEDED
We exceeded our goal by reaching 16.2 percent of the CWU student veteran population. Our team accom-
plished this while hosting our week of events, each of which either highlighted veterans’ available resources,
support, or advocacy within Ellensburg.
8. Objective 2: Increase awareness of student veterans and their transition from service to school by reaching
35% of the CWU and local population from Feb. 15 – March 15.
Strategy 1: Partner with businesses and other venues to offer a wide range of topics that creates an outlet for
community members to gain a better understanding of student veterans.
Rationale: In order to engage the communities outside of the campus we are seeking partnerships that
broadened our reach and capabilities.
Tactic 1: Partner with the Clymer Museum and Gallery to hold an event in downtown Ellensburg.
The Clymer Museum is actually named after a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who was born and raised
in Ellensburg, John Ford Clymer. This partnership can help bridge the gap between campus and local
community members as they are permanently displaying his artwork and the perfect venue to host an
event.
Tactic 2: Assemble a team of student artists and partner them with student veterans. Our idea is to
create an exhibit full of art pieces that tell CWU student veterans’ stories. Every first Friday of each
month, the Clymer Museum hosts an event called “First Friday Art Walk”, which highlights local
artists and culture. Our week happens to end on Friday, March 4, so in recognizing this we partnered
with the Clymer Museum. The team of student artists selected will have their work displayed all
month at the museum to create a lasting impact on our community.
Strategy 2: Create on campus partnerships and utilize resources in order to provide opportunities for CWU
students to relate to student veterans.
Rationale: Through our research we found that many traditional students did not know much about student
veterans nor understand them very well either. There was an overwhelming curiosity students expressed to
us, but the consensus was that the lack of an appropriate setting set back any efforts in understanding what
student veterans were going through.
Tactic 1: Work with the CWU Veterans Center. We partnered with the veteran center to find student
veterans willing to share their experiences while transitioning from service to school. Our idea behind
this was to host an experience panel on the Tuesday of our week. This experience panel will provide
insight to the civilian individuals curious about student veterans.
Tactic 2: Work with the CWU Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement (CLCE). Each quarter
the CLCE hosts an awareness concert and this winter quarter their topic happened to be POW and
MIA. CLCE hosts an awareness concert and this winter quarter their topic happened to be POW and
MIA. For the Thursday of our week we asked to partner with them in hopes of co-hosting this event.
The event will feature artistic performances from students and also professional public speakers who
can speak on related topics all the while raising awareness for POW and MIA service members. This
event is held in the Student Union building and gains a lot of traffic from students passing by.
Tactic 3: Work with the CWU Veterans Memorial Task Force. While researching we found that there
was a task force assembled to plan the unveiling for a future veteran memorial site on campus. Once we
heard of this event, we immediately decided to join this task force in hopes of making it a part of our
week. We drafted a proposal to them, but soon found out the ground breaking ceremony would take
place after implementation period. Although our work will end with them on March 15, this will even-
tually allow all of Ellensburg to see the future plans for the CWU veteran memorial and create a lasting
9. impact within the community.
Objective 2 Outcome: EXCEEDED
Through social media, earned media, and the events held on campus as well as off campus, our campaign
reached 22,737 people, which is 43 percent more than our goal. This was exceeded from our total outreach of
social media platforms, local and student media coverage such as blogs, newspapers, and radio stations, and
also finding several different partnerships within the community.
Objective 3: Initiate the establishment of a CWU Student Veterans of America chapter.
Strategy 1: Mentor potentially interested individuals and inform them on the necessary steps to create a SVA
chapter.
Rationale: Through the conducted focus groups our team was able to identify a few individuals that seemed
interested in starting a student veteran organization here at CWU. We felt that after hosting our “CWU Stu-
dent Veteran Week” we could gather enough student veterans to help establish a chapter as we cannot do it
ourselves.
Tactic 1: Host an information booth at the student veteran’s resource fair. From day one we wanted to
advocate for student veterans to create an SVA chapter. Our team is to have a booth set up at the re-
source fair and be there to provide any information requested about SVA. We will have a contact sheet
handy so that we can get ahold of these interested student veterans.
Tactic 2: Host an informational meeting. Once our week is over, we plan to gather those student veter-
ans interested in SVA chapter leadership or member ship. The meeting will give them the background
and basic knowledge needed in order to start a chapter.
Strategy 2: Create materials on the successful establishment of an SVA chapter here at CWU.
Rationale: Through conversations with departments on campus we learned that there were several issues
with previous veteran organizations on campus. In order to ensure that SVA be successful at CWU, we decid-
ed to create a packet of all the necessary materials for establishment.
Tactic 1: Gather materials provided by SVA. All the proper paperwork will be printed out and ex-
plained to interested members. We will also collect everything our university needs to get the chapter
recognized. We want to have potential advisers listed as well as show them the general SVA website so
they can understand the organization they are about to join.
Tactic 2: Investigate the necessary tips for a successful chapter on any given campus. In our research
period we conducted a case study on successful SVA chapters throughout the states. We plan to use this
information as it will give the interested student veterans a good idea of which way they could take the
chapter and how others manage themselves. We will also provide our own insight as all Bateman team
members have been a part of leadership in a chapter like SVA before.
Objective 3 Outcome: ACHIEVED
This objective was met by our team through extensive research and constant recruitment during our “CWU
Student Veterans Week.” From week one, we knew it would be a struggle to establish a chapter unless we
found the right student veterans. We listened to what they had to say though and realized that they wanted
to start a chapter; they just didn’t know how or have enough guidance to get it going. After our informational
10. meeting with the interested student veterans, they went straight to CWU Veteran Center and talked to the
director about establishing a SVA chapter here on campus.
Budget
The majority of our funds used in our
CWU Student Veterans Week were from
the PRSSA funds, amounting to $256.92.
The remainder of the funds came from
the in-kind donations, amounting to
$190.00. The total amount used for this
campaign was $446.92. With a budget
cap of $1,300, $300 from PRSSA funds
and $1,000 from in-kind donations, we
have a remaining budget balance of
$853.08.
Conclusion
In an attempt to bridge the gap in understanding between non-veteran and veteran students, highlight ser-
vices and resources available to students and enlighten potentially interested individuals on the benefits of
starting a Student Veterans of America chapter we focused on planning a campaign that would be multifac-
eted and target many different audiences. By forging partnerships we not only gained the necessary insight to
the student veteran population but also expanded our abilities as a team.
We knew that in order to be successful we needed to reach as many people as possible. Our strategy was to
plaster flyers and handbills wherever possible in the community, target local media sources, and bloggers.
#CWUSVWeek was recognized not only in the local Ellensburg newspaper, The Daily Record, but also on
88.1 The BURG and several student blog sites. Through continual interaction on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube,
our website and blog we were able to expand the reach of our campaign even further and managed to interact
with over 22 thousand individuals.
Throughout the campaign we maintained focused on not only Student Veterans of America but also the local
student veteran population. #CWUSVWeek exceled in areas of awareness, advocacy and support.
11. Budget
Item Item Description Quanity Budget
Funds
Actual
Cost
Dominos Pizza Pizza for participants in our focus
groups. We conducted three focus
groups.
3 $60.00 $45.63
Event Space Space and equipment for the week of
events held on CWU campus.
5 $180.00 $168.00
Website CWUSVWeek.com domain name and
analytics.
2 $25.00 $21.86
Trifold Trifold for tabling as promotion for Stu-
dent Veterans Week.
1 $10.00 $8.45
Trifold Header Paper to be cut into letters for Trifold
header: “#CWUSVWeek.”
5 $1.00 $0.30
Trifold Printing Printing for photos, social media links,
and informational text to place on tri-
fold.
7 $3.00 $1.05
Support Board
Material
“I Support SV” board paper and mark-
ers.
2 $12.00 $11.63
Total Spent $256.92
Balance $43.08
PRSSA Funds ($300)
In-Kind Donations ($1,000)
Donor Donated Item/Description Quanity Our
Cost
Normal
Cost
Taj Palace Gift card for social media raffle. 1 $0.00 $25.00
Wildcat Shop Gift card for social media raffle. 1 $0.00 $25.00
Kabob House Gift card for social media raffle. 1 $0.00 $20.00
Clymer Museum &
Gallery
Space for veteran art exhibit. Nor-
mally would not charge.
1 $0.00 $0.00
88.1 The Burg Played music during “I Support SV.”
Normally would not charge for on
campus.
1 $0.00 $0.00
Communications
Department
Printing promotional items, flyers,
handbills, quartersheets, etc. Combi-
nation of in-color and black & white.
400 $0.00 $120.00
Veterans of For-
eign War
“I Support SV” presence and hand-
ing out popeyes.
1 $0.00 $0.00
Total Cost $190.00
Balance $810.00
23. Q1 Do you know a veteran?
Yes No
Q2 Do you know any student veterans?
Yes No
Q3 Have you heard of any of the following veteran
organizations?
Veterans of Foreign War
Salute Honor Society
Student Veterans of America
American Legion
Other ____________________
None of the above
Q4 Are you involved in any student organization on
Central Washington University campus?
Yes No N/A
Q5 What topics would you be interested in learning
more about, in regards to veterans? Check all that
apply.
Post 9/11 G.I. Bill PTSD
Salute Honor Society Peer-To-Peer
Veterans of Foreign War POW
Veteran Student Relations
Spouse/Family Benefits
Student Veterans of America
Other ____________________
Q6 How much support do you think the Central
Washington University community lends to veterans?
None Minimal Adequate Outstanding
Q7 How much support do you think the Ellensburg
community lends to veterans?
None Minimal Adequate
Outstanding
Q8 If there was an event supporting student veterans,
would you be interested in attending, volunteering or
both?
Attend Volunteer Both
Q9 Should CWU have a Student Veterans of Ameri-
ca chapter?
Yes No
Q10 If yes, would you join the SVA chapter at
CWU?
Yes No
Q11 Are you a student?
Yes No
Q12 If yes, what is your class standing?
Freshman Sophomore
Junior Senior
Q13 Are you a veteran?
Yes No
Q14 Gender
Male Female
Q15 Age
18-24 years old
25-34 years old
35-44 years old
45+ years old
Q16 What is your marital status?
Single, never married
Married or domestic partnership
Widowed
Divorced
Research
CWU Student Veterans Week
24. MEMO
TO: 2015-2016 Bateman Team
FROM: Travis Isaman
SUBJECT: Social Media Campaigns
DATE: January 2, 2016
A case study was conducted on social media campaigns and strategies to examine how a brand new Student
Veterans of America chapter would structure their social media campaign. This information was found
through a heap of online research and a look at various SVA chapters’ social media campaigns.
Background
When reviewing the current Student Veterans of America social media pages a few things come to mind:
1. There is a lack of engagement.
2. The same content is posted on each platform.
3. The current content is helpful for student vets.
With number three being said it is confusing as to why number one is on the list. The SVA Facebook page
has almost 15,000 likes and the Twitter has 10.2 thousand followers. This is a massive following for an orga-
nization like this. Thousands of student veterans are following these social media pages, but with no engage-
ment how do we know that these vets are getting the information that they want or need.
Definitions
First, let us jump into the definition of engagement. Jason Falls stated in a blog that he wrote that engage-
ment on social media is defined as “communicating well enough that the audience pays attention.” This defi-
nition means that in order for a business or organization to get engagement then they need to have meaning-
ful or valuable content.
Many people believe that by having many followers or likes they have a successful social media page. This
is not the case at all. One page can have one million followers and no engagement while another page can
have 500 likes and have the most engagement.
Now we can look into how engagement is defined for each social media:
• Facebook: defines engagement as likes, comments and shares.
• Twitter: defines engagement as replies, retweets and mentions.
• Instagram: defines engagement as likes, comments and tags.
Successful Campaigns
One way for businesses or organizations to have engagement is to create a hashtag campaign. These cam-
paigns allow consumers to easily find and compile conversations regarding a certain topic or product. Now
that most social media platforms utilize hashtags this type of campaign can and should be used across multi-
ple mediums.
Many armed forces and veterans utilized the hashtag campaign in the past year. In light of the ISIS attacks
in the last year there has been much speculation as to what to do with the Muslim refugee and Muslims
25. already in America. Many people became worried that they would be kicked out of America just for being
Muslim.
After a mother’s post went viral about her daughter being scared that the government would come for her to
kick her out of the country armed services members and veterans took a stand to ensure Muslims that they
would be protected through the hashtag #IWillProtectYou.
This hashtag campaign asked armed services members and veterans to post a picture of them in uniform
with the hashtag #IWillProtectYou.
One of the largest hashtag campaigns from the last year was the #ShareaCoke. This campaign generated
hundreds of thousands of tweets. Coca-Cola took this campaign to the next level by producing Coke bot-
tles with various names printed on them such as: mom, BFF, and people’s names. People could then use the
hashtag with a picture of the bottle and promote who they were sharing a Coke with.
Stemming from this campaign, Coca-Cola was able to create several smaller campaign within this one. For
example, Coca-Cola offered fans the ability to #ShareaCoke with Ryan Seacrest simply by sharing a photo
of bottle of Coke that said Ryan on it. This got consumers to purchase more bottles.
References
Falls, J. (2012, April 25). Defining Engagement [Web log post]. Retrieved January 02, 2016, from https://
www.socialmediaexplorer.com/social-media-marketing/defining-engagement/
Mohney, G. (2015, December 20). Armed Forces Members,Veterans Use #iwillprotectyou After Muslim
Child Says She’s Afraid. Retrieved January 02, 2016, from http://abcnews.go.com/US/armed-forces-mem-
bersveterans-iwillprotectyou-muslim-child-shes-afraid/story?id=35876582
Patterson, M. (2015, August 10). 7 examples of successful hashtag campaigns | Social Studies. Retrieved
January 02, 2016, from http://www.tintup.com/blog/7-examples-of-successful-hashtag-campaigns/
Katschthaler, A. (2015, March 26). What is a hashtag campaign [Web log post]. Retrieved January 02, 2016,
from http://blog.walls.io/2015/03/26/what-is-a-hashtag-campaign/
26. MEMO
TO: 2015-2016 Bateman Team
FROM: JoAnn Briscoe
SUBJECT: Small Town Community Support for Veterans
DATE: December 20, 2015
A case study was conducted on different veteran events held in small towns across the country. This was con-
ducted through secondary research online through different new articles, and event pages. Examining this
information will help the Bateman team in deciding how we will plan to engage the community and increase
their awareness of student veterans.
Background
Since 1776 to 2012, the United States has had more than 40 million people fighting for its freedom. Every
year on November 11, the nation celebrates these soldiers for their service to the civilians of this country.
The purpose is to celebrate and honor those who still live and also those who have fallen for the freedom we
so often take for granted.
Key Findings
Communities from as little as 800 residents to as many as 500,000 residents have all found ways to value and
support the veterans within their communities. From east coast to the west coast, the nation is celebrating the
lives of veterans with food, parades, musical events, dramatic readings, panels, and more. Perry, Iowa and
Auburn, Washington are two cities of different sizes that have had success with their annual events.
Perry, Iowa has a population of 8,000 residents and hosts eight to 10 events each year for Veterans Day.
They host a panel to share thoughts, feelings, and stories about those who served. They proved gather-
ings for breakfast, lunch, and dinner where the community joins together to show their gratitude for them.
Shakespeare readings of Band of Brothers, video presentations, and more shine the light on the lives that
our veterans go through prior to and post service. More than 200 vets were expected for the breakfast at this
year’s events. This town had started inviting veterans to these events since 2009 and it has just grown into an
inspiring, celebration towards those who served.
Auburn, Washington is a larger town but still small considering Seattle, its neighbor, with 74,000 residents.
This town holds a mile-long parade and observance to honor the veterans in the community, every year.
This past year, 2015, was the 50th Annual Veterans Day Parade & Observance. The parade boasts over 200
units and more than 5,500 participants. This has grown to such a large event that the amount of applicants
to participate far exceeds the availability for participants, so they are unable to approve them all.
Other cities have their own contribution to show their support. Tucson, Arizona created a program “Boots
for Our Troops.” This allows individuals to buy a boot shaped cutout, that in 2008 raised $25,000 to re-ac-
climate veterans. Hemingford, Nebraska litters the streets with hundreds of flags. Coleman, Michigan is the
home of a veteran memorial that is continuously added to as the years go on. In the near future they hope to
add a modern female soldier to this memorial. In Parker, South Dakota the veterans of the town are hon-
ored by photographs features on a Christmas tree.
Veterans Week
The Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District campus in El Cajon, California hosts a week of
27. support for veterans in the community. In 2012, they were able to have a ribbon cutting of a new student
veteran’s resource building on campus. They also had military vehicles on display, a physical training chal-
lenge, blood drive, appreciation awards, video game tournaments, food sales, a clothing drive, and more.
Works Cited
Veterans Day Ceremony. (n.d.). Retrieved December 20, 2015, from http://gilbertaz.gov/departments/
parks-and-recreation/special-events/veteran-s-day
Small Town of Perry Shows Big Time Support for its Veterans. (2015, November 11). Retrieved December
20, 2015, from http://whotv.com/2015/11/11/small-town-of-perry-shows-big-time-support-for-its-veter-
ans/
How 6 Small Towns Honor Veterans. (n.d.). Retrieved December 20, 2015, from http://www.rd.com/
true-stories/inspiring/how-6-small-towns-honor-veteran/
Colleges host Veterans Week events. (n.d.). Retrieved December 20, 2015, from http://www.gcccd.edu/
news/2012/11/110512-veterans-week-events.html
28. MEMO
TO: 2015-2016 Bateman Team
FROM: Sarah Collins
SUBJECT: Post 9/11 GI Bill
DATE: December 26, 2015
Upon learning the 2016 Bateman topic, the Central Washington University Bateman team knew that one
of the biggest subjects that would need to be researched was the Post 9/11 GI Bill. In order to get a better
understanding of student veterans, a case study was conducted on the rights provided to veterans and their
dependents in the Bill.
Benefits
The Post 9/11 GI Bill is a program that provides educational benefits to qualified individuals. Benefits in-
clude tuition and fee payments paid to the individual’s school, monthly housing allowance (also known as the
MHA), and a books and supplies stipend. Individuals are eligible for up to 36 months of assistance depend-
ing on their active service and circumstances.
Eligibility
All those who have served a minimum of 90 active duty days or anyone who has been honorably discharged
from active duty for disability after a minimum of 30 days of active duty after September 10, 2001 may be
eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill. There are also special qualifications for children of individuals who have
died in the line of duty. The eligibility of an individual remains active for 15 years after the last period of a
minimum of 90 active duty days.
There is also a potential benefit transfer available for active duty members. This typically means that by
agreeing to serve more time an individual may transfer their unused benefits to a spouse or dependent. If
this often an practical option for those who are of higher ranking because they spent more time in the ser-
vice.
Qualifying Institutions
In order to determine if a program is approved for the use of the Post 9/11 GI Bill an individual can visit
http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/ and use the search tool provided. Colleges, universities, trade schools, on-
the-job training, apprenticeships, and flight schools all potentially qualify. This is the easiest way to get the
process of finding a suitable school for using benefits started.
Yellow Ribbon Program
This program extends additional support to those who seek an education from a private institution, which is
not included in the qualifying institutions. These institutions are matched dollar-for-dollar by the VA to cover
any unmet charges of veterans utilizing their GI Bill at the particular school.
References
Veteran Benefit Admistration. (12-26-2015). Post 9/11 GI Bill: You’re your Future. [Brochure]. Washington,
DC: Department of Veteran Affairs. http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/docs/pamphlets/ch33_pamphlet.
pdf
29. MEMO
TO: 2015-2016 Bateman Team
FROM: Nicolette Bender
SUBJECT: Successful SVA Chapter
DATE: December 22, 2015
When drafting our goals and objectives for this campaign, we realized CWU does not have a SVA chapter.
Being named as a military-friendly school along with strong veteran assistance, our team wanted to initiate
the process of a SVA chapter here in Ellensburg. But first we needed to find out what made a successful SVA
chapter, so a case study was conducted on the FIU student veterans and how they’ve become a strong chap-
ter.
Background
One SVA chapter that stood out the most was Florida International University. They are a continuously
active chapter that has been recognized several times for their dedication to SVA’s mission. Through many
hosted events and constant social media outreach, I’ve noticed they really have gained an audience. The nine
of them and a couple of advisors keep in touch with the student veteran community by attending confer-
ences and gaining the knowledge they need to push resources out for other student veterans.
Events Hosted
This chapter always seems to have something going on. From peer to peer leadership programs to Home-
coming tailgate parties or from hosting a 5k to putting on a SVA intramural sports league, they have truly hit
every aspect of a traditional student’s life and incorporated veterans into that culture. There are opportuni-
ties for student veterans to get involved and be social with other colleagues while there are also many oppor-
tunities offered toward excelling in their studies and finding employment after they graduate. Another great
subject they focus on is giving back. FIU SVA chapter has hosted events like “Walk for Life” which is a 2.2
mile walk/run to raise awareness about PTSD or volunteering their time to park clean ups and tree planting.
Social Media
FIU is constantly on Facebook promoting their next event or even sharing valuable information to the public
about student veterans. It seems to bring a lot of awareness to the campus about the resources, support,
and advocacy that FIU offers to student veterans. They also have an Instagram account that highlights the
chapter’s monthly events and general body meetings. The amount of followers for each account is pretty
decent considering the student veteran population of the school. They have constant branding with their
logo slapped on most postings you’ll see on their social media platforms. They also use hashtags such as
“#VetLifeFIU” and “#FIUSVA”. This creates a sense of community that is unique to student veterans on
campus. Another platform they have utilized is YouTube. FIU created a promo video for their chapter that
essentially highlights the benefits of joining SVA.
Conclusion
The SVA chapter at FIU shows a high level of commitment to SVA’s mission and vision as well as a high
level of professionalism that seems to appeal to many student veterans around their campus. The amount
of events and resources pushed to the community is impressive and their constant presence on several social
media platforms helps unite that community. FIU does not only have a successful chapter, but a growing one.
Any school looking to improve or start up their own chapter would be wise to take notes of FIU’s outstand-
ing effort and accomplishments.
30. References
Florida International University. (n.d.). FIU sudent veterans (@sva_fiu) • Instagram photos and videos. Re-
trieved December 22, 2015, from https://www.instagram.com/SVA_FIU/
Florida International University. (n.d.). Student Veterans America- Florida International University. Re-
trieved December 22, 2015, from https://www.facebook.com/Student-Veterans-of-America-Florida-Inter-
national-University-1505262153056880/
31. MEMO
TO: 2015-2016 Bateman Team
FROM: Jasmine Randhawa
SUBJECT: Kognito: A Friendlier Campus
DATE: December 22, 2015
A case study was conducted on the program Kognito to go over the effects of the program and how it is run.
The information was found from the Kognito website that gives an overview of how it works and how to get
the program in a university.
Background
With the emerging population of student veterans, it is important to understand how the transition from a
combat lifestyle to a student on a campus affects a veteran. Between the years 2000-2012 more than 900,000
veterans pursued higher education (NCSL, 2014). Men and women who have served receive more of their
financial support through the G.I. Bill, but lack the same amount of support of the university and its re-
sources compared to traditional students.
The needs of the growing student veteran population should be addressed by creating strategies that this
report presents through research on the Kognito Virtual Training that the Student Veterans of America
organization provides.
What is Kognito?
Kognito is a 30-minute online interactive training session for on campus student veterans and faculty. The
program places users in realistic scenarios that student veterans face from their transition from combat to
campus.
Many student veterans face the challenges of:
• Isolation
• Cultural Change
• Academic Difficulties
• Time Management
• Mental-Health Issues
Conclusion
By creating a structured program such as Student Veterans of America (SVA) or at least the foundation for
one, and adding in Kognito training, campuses become a more student veteran friendly community.
Providing Kognito training for veteran faculty during SVA Week allows for higher numbers of the campus
population to receive training.
If the SVA Chapter kicks off, having Kognito training to be an annual goal for the chapter would be helpful
to create a constant student veteran friendly environment.
Reference
Kognito Virtual Training. (n.d.). Retrieved January 5, 2016, from http://studentveterans.org/index.php/
programs/kognito-virtual-training
32. MEMO
TO: 2015-2016 Bateman Team
FROM: Jasmine Randhawa
SUBJECT: Combat to Campus
DATE: December 22, 2015
“When it came to college, I didn’t know that there was a medium to large student veteran population. I was
in my own world working on myself, by myself.”
-Graduate Student Veteran
Reasoning
With the emerging population of student veterans, it is important to understand how the transition from a
combat lifestyle to a student on a campus affects a veteran. Between the years 2000-2012 more than 900,000
veterans pursued higher education (NCSL, 2014). Men and women who have served receive more of their fi-
nancial support through the G.I. Bill, but lack the same amount of support of the university and its resources
compared to traditional students. The needs of the growing student veteran population should be addressed
by creating strategies that this report presents through research on transition experiences of student veterans
as well as information gathered from the CAP (Center of American Progress), NCSL (National Conference
of State Legislatures), and other organizations and studies.
EEVI Environmental Evaluation for Veterans Index
The EEVI is a new “assessment tool based on a comprehensive review of published research and recommen-
dations related to working with the student veteran populations, as well as the findings of a new multi-institu-
tional study. The index allows institutions to clearly and consistently measure whether they have the services,
policies, and sources of support necessary to assist returning veterans’ transitions into higher education”
(Peters, 2012)
EEVI can be used to assess the quality of an institution’s environment as it relates to student veterans based
on three dimensions:
• Personnel and Services: the existence of offices, services, and professionals that can meet and under-
stand unique issues and concerns of student veterans
• Institutional Structures: the existence of campus policies and procedures related to administering
student veterans’ information, benefits, and services
• Social and Cultural Support: the extent of student veteran specific groups and services, and quality
relationships between student veterans, their peers, and faculty.
Challenges
The EEVI structure doesn’t cover the “Social and Cultural Support” aspect of the Index. Student veterans
don’t have the luxury of making friends such as traditional students and have a difficult time relating to stu-
dents. Severe depression and anxiety affected 35% and 24% respectively.
Recommendations
By creating structured programs such as SVA, EEVI, and Kognito, student veteran life on campus can be-
come a lot friendlier and supportive. Student Veteran Programs allow for a healthy and stable community,
rather than each student being on their own.
33. Griffin, K., & Gilbert, C. (2012, April 1). Easing the Transition from Combat to Classroom. Retrieved De-
cember 30, 2015, from https://www.americanprogress.org/wp-content/uploads/issues/2012/04/pdf/stu-
dent_veterans.pdf
Lighhall, A. (n.d.). Ten Things You Should Know About Today’s Student Veteran. Retrieved December 30,
2015, from http://www.nea.org/home/53407.htm
State and Community Roles in Supporting College Completion for Veterans. (2014, May 13). Retrieved De-
cember 30, 2015, from http://www.ncsl.org/research/education/veterans-and-college.aspx
Student Veteran Fast Facts - November 2011. (n.d.). Retrieved December 30, 2015, from http://www.opera-
tionpromiseforservicemembers.com/FastFacts.html
VA Campus Toolkit. (n.d.). Retrieved December 30, 2015, from http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/studentvet-
eran/adjustment.asp#sthash.OHm0SqXp.dpbs
34. Planning
Hi [Inset Organization Name],
My name is [Member Name], I’m a senior at Central Washington University and a part of a group on
campus that is attempting to put together a “CWU Student Veterans Week.” We have been in constant com-
munication with the Veteran Center office here at CWU and working closely with Ruben Cardenas. During
this Student Veterans Week, one of the days (specifically Monday, February 29) we are planning to host a
Resource Fair including as many vendor booths as possible throughout Washington that support and provide
resources to veterans and/or student veterans.
So my question to you: would the [Insert Organization Name] be interested in holding a booth at the Re-
source Fair? The whole idea is to have up to 10+ vendor booths in the Student Union Building between the
hours 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. We can help set up and take down and my group will be facilitating this event.
Let me know if you’re interested or have any questions. Thank you!
Regards,
[Member Name]
CWU Bateman [Position]
[Contact Information]
35. Vendor List
CWU Veteran Center
Ruben Cardenas, Director
Email: cardenasr@cwu.edu
Tayler Yong Fillmore, Veteran Outreach Recruiter
Email: yongfillmt@cwu.edu
Student Veterans of America
ASWSU Student Veterans Committee
Jermiha White, Vice President
Email: jermiha.white@wsu.edu
CWU Disabilities Services
Wendy Holden, Director
Phone: (509) 963-2214
Email: holdenwe@cwu.edu
Family Resource Center
Amy Claridge, Director
Email: claridgea@cwu.edu
Phone: (509) 963-2758
Student Medical and Coun-
seling Center
Chris De Villeneuve, Executive Director
Phone: (509) 963-1391
Email: DeVilleneuveC@cwu.edu
CWU Career Services
Vicki Sannuto, Director
Phone: (509) 963-2420
Email: sannutov@cwu.edu
Disabled American Veterans
– Yakima
Byron Kent
Phone: (509) 575-4748
Email: DAVWA8@yahoo.com
HopeSource
Chad Larson, Direct Service Provider
Phone: (509) 859-1220
CLarson@HOPESOURCE.US
Veterans of Foreign War
Stan Dudley, VFW First Vice Commander
Phone: (509) 607-9730
Email: stanvera@charter.net
Washington State Depart-
ment of Veteran Affairs
Dacry Hutchinson, Veteran Benefit Specialist
Phone: (360) 725-9846
Email: darcyh@dva.wa.gov
37. Campaign Planning
Brainstorming for the cap stone event.
Writing out the scheduled week of events.
First brainstorming session on events for the week.
38. MEDIA ADVISORY
Student Veteran’s Week Kicks Off February 29- March 4, 2016
Join us for the full #CWUSVWeek salute at CWU and Downtown Ellensburg
Students from Central Washington University, representing the Student Veterans of America, are presenting
a week full of events for veterans and the community, according to a news release.
Who: The Central Washington University Bateman Team on behalf of the Student Veterans of America
What: Veteran’s Resource Fair
Where: SURC 137 A/B
When: February 29, 2016 at 11:30 AM- 2 PM
Why: Spread awareness of veteran resources, advocacy, and materials for student veterans and dependents.
What: Veteran’s Experience Panel
Where: SURC Theater
When: March 1, 2016 at 3 PM
Why: Spreading awareness of the student veteran experience and gaining greater community understanding.
What: “I Support Student Veterans” Display Board
Where: SURC West Patio
When: March 2, 2016 at 11:30 AM
Why: Creating a visual representation of the support system behind the Central Washington University
student veterans.
What: Unheard Voices, Benefit Concert
Where: SURC Pit
When: March 3, 2016 at 6 PM
Why: Raise awareness for Prisoners of War and Missing in Action while spreading awareness of active mili-
tary and student veterans.
What: CWU Veterans Memorial Design Unveiling
Where: In front of McConnell Auditorium on University Way
When: March 4, 2016 at 1 PM
Why: Unveil to the university and local community the design of the new veteran memorial.
What: Student Veteran’s Week Art Exhibit
Where: The John Ford Clymer Museum & Gallery
When March 4, 2016 at 5 PM
Why: Display the experiences of seven local veterans through the work of student artists.
Implementation
39. MEDIA ADVISORY
Central Washington University to Build New Veteran Memorial
Hosts Ceremony to Display Future Design
With over 600,000 veterans in Washington State, a group of Central Washington University organizations
plan to build a new veterans memorial site on campus. An unveiling ceremony will be held to showcase the
new design of the memorial as well as provide information on expected completion dates. Event will feature
veteran speaker, speech from CWU Provost and Veteran Memorial Task Force.
What: CWU Veterans Memorial Design Unveiling
Who: Central Washington University Veterans Memorial Task Force
CWU Bateman Team
Student Veterans of America
WDVA
CWU Provost
When: March 4, 2016 1pm
Where: In front of McConnell Hall, on University Way.
Why: Showcase site and design for new veterans memorial.
For more information, contact Sarah Collins at (206) 423-6081
MEDIA ADVISORY
John Ford Clymer Museum and Gallery Host’s Student Veteran’s Week Exhibit
Student artists and veterans pair up to display experiences.
The John Clymer Museum and gallery will host the capstone event of the first ever CWU Student Veterans
Week. On March 4 the SV week exhibit at the Clymer will hold several pieces created by student artists at the
university. Each artist featured is partnered with a veteran from either CWU or the local community. The
artists were asked to meet with the veterans, hear their stories, and then turn their experiences into a repre-
sentative piece. The specializations of the artists range from painting to calligraphy work and even sculpting.
What: First Friday Art Walk Student Veteran’s Week Art Exhibit
Who: Student Veteran’s Week Committee
When: March 4, 2016 at 5 PM
Where: John Ford Clymer Museum and Gallery
Why: To promote the connection between campus and community veteran support.
For more information please contact Sarah Collins at (206) 423-6081.
45. Experience PanelStudent veterans of the
Veterans Experience
Panel.
Left to Right:
Bateman Team member,
JoAnn Briscoe, introducing
Mike Schindler and panel.
Mike Schindler giving
some background of his
own experience of tran-
sistioning from service to
civilian life.
46. “I Support SV” Board
The end result of Wedensday’s “I Support Student Veterans” board.
Students showing their support. High traffic support.
Veterans of Foreign Wars came out to show support and hand out poppies to students, faculty,
and visiters at CWU.
47. Unheard Voices
Audience members who came out to support POW/MIA.
CWU Veteran Center and ROTC members at the event.
The Jazz Club was one of many student muscians playing for such
a great awareness event.
Missing Man Table
48. Art Exhibit
Veteran Art Exhibit at Clymer Museum & Gallery
during First Friday Art Walk.
Student artist, Cady Buscher, with her piece telling the
story of veteran Jim Hainer.
Student artist, Theresa Lynch, standing next to her
piece telling the story of veteran, Brett Wachsmith.
Student artist, Kaitlyn Farr, with her piece telling
the story of veteran and panel member, David
Strugell.
Student artist & veteran posing together for
photos.
49. Media Coverage
Bateman team together for an interview with Matt from 88.1 the BURG, after our veteran experience panel.
