West Chester University Launches Campaign to Support Veterans

West Chester University has launched “Beyond Gratitude, a Justice and Advocacy Campaign for Veterans,” designed to tackle the systemic barriers veterans face as they navigate civilian life, access resources, and secure justice.

The signature event, “Veterans, Justice, and Community: Navigating Systems & Securing Support,” is scheduled for today, Tuesday, Nov. 11, with a reception and resource fair, offering in-person and virtual attendance options available. It will take place from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in West Chester University's Business and Public Management Center, Room 101. 

The panel discussion will be followed by a reception and resource fair in Room 102. This panel will feature representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the Chester County Veterans Affairs Office, West Chester University's Veterans Center, and other community partners. It will be moderated by U.S. Marine Corps veteran and doctoral student John Crouser, who will explore issues of mental health, reintegration, victimization, and access to services.

According to MyChesCo, Dr. Michele P. Bratina, a criminal justice professor, is leading efforts to connect veterans with advocacy, resources, and practical solutions to address systemic challenges.

Additional events on Tuesday, Nov. 11, and Wednesday, Nov. 12, include a resume review and career lunch for student veterans, as well as a virtual suicide prevention and awareness training led by Coatesville VA Medical Center staff.

This collaborative initiative brings together the university's Department of Criminal Justice, Nu Beta honor society, the Criminal Justice Student Association, the Student Veterans Group, and NAMI on Campus. These groups are joining together to support the academic, mental health, and veteran communities in pursuing justice for veterans.