Seminar clarifies new G.I. Bill

Nov. 13, 2008

KALAMAZOO--A comprehensive seminar titled "The New G.I. Bill--New Questions and Answers" will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, in the Bernhard Center's Brown and Gold Room for select members of Western Michigan University's campus community.

As of Aug. 1, 2009, student veterans, active military members and active reservists, along with their dependants, will be eligible for the Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act. This so-called mini-G.I. Bill has raised many questions for vets and military students and will affect service providers at WMU.

To help clarify key aspects of the legislation, the University's Advocacy Office for Transfer Students and Military Affairs has organized the seminar in conjunction with the Military and Veteran Student Association.

The program is geared toward WMU veteran students, prospective and current military members, and faculty, staff and administrators who will be most directly impacted by the new legislation's changes in policy and compensation.

Several representatives from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' Battle Creek Medical Center will present information during the seminar.

The program overview will be given by Mick Hornev, transition patient advocate for Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom. In addition, Sharon Czuk, ambulatory care section chief will address eligibility and enrollment issues, while Andy Wright, vocational rehabilitation counselor, will address employment and education issues.

To reserve a seat at the seminar or obtain more information, contact Eric McConnell in WMU's advocacy office at eric.mcconnell@wmich.edu or (269) 387-0740.

Media contact: Jeanne Baron, (269) 387-8400, jeanne.baron@wmich.edu

Adapted from www.wmich.edu/wmu/news