Community Listening Session: Community College Insights and Strategies

On November 7, 2024, CVTI convened a roundtable with community college professionals from across the U.S. to discuss emerging practices, common challenges, and opportunities in supporting veteran and military-connected students. The goal was to strengthen partnerships and learn from those on the ground shaping integrative cultures of support.

Why We Gathered

We brought together community college professionals from across the country to talk about what’s working on their campuses, what’s not, and how we can better support veteran and military-connected students—together.

Who Was in the Room

Professionals from:

  • Northeast Lakeview College (TX)
  • LaGuardia Community College (NY)
  • College of DuPage (IL)
  • Ocean County College (NJ)
  • Hudson Valley Community College (NY)
  • San Antonio College (TX)
  • Alamo Colleges District (TX)
  • CVTI staff and facilitators

What We Heard

Big Strength:

“We’re in this because we care.”
These professionals are doing more with less—going beyond paperwork to offer purpose, connection, and compassion.

Big Challenges:

  • Funding & Leadership Gaps: Hard to grow programs without buy-in or resources.
  • VA Benefits Confusion: Students need clearer, consistent support across their journey.
  • Campus Misconceptions: Stereotypes lead to unwelcoming cultures. Veterans are often misunderstood.
  • Staff Burnout: Passion alone isn’t sustainable. Systems need support.

Where We Go From Here

We asked, “If you had a magic wand...”
Here’s what they wished for—and what we’re working on:

  • Humanizing Success
    Success is more than grades. It’s purpose, community, and progress.
  • Investing in Frontline Staff
    Give the people doing the work the tools they need to thrive.
  • Lifecycle Support
    Start early. Stay consistent. Support veterans before, during, and after college.
  • Cultural Change on Campus
    Shift perceptions. Train faculty. Affirm veterans’ value in every space.
  • Modern GI Bill
    Push for policies that actually work for community college students.

What CVTI’s Doing Now

  • Listening, Always: The truth from the people on-the-ground drives our approach.
  • Tools in Progress: A flexible regional rubric for community college partners.
  • Stronger Networks: Taking advantage of peer connection opportunities—virtual and in-person.
  • Custom Support: Building tailored training and workshops for campuses.

Final Word

Community colleges are on the front lines of veteran transition and their voices are shaping our national strategy. Together, we’re building something stronger.