Veterans Awareness Month graphic

With a strong focus on community-building and academic success, CSUSB’s Student Veterans Organization (SVO) has cultivated a supportive environment for student-veterans, dependents of veterans, active servicemembers, ROTC cadets and military supporters.

The significant impact the student-led organization has had on the campus community was highlighted at this year’s Office of Student Leadership and Engagement awards ceremony, where the SVO was recognized with three awards: Best Emerging New Leader (Vicky Lopez), Club Leader of the Year (Ralph Figueroa), and Campus Club of the Year. The accolades underscored the dedication and contributions of the SVO to its members and the campus community.

“I knew we had a good possibility of getting club of the year, because I know a lot of the initiatives and programs that we created were very unique and impactful not only for student-veterans but for all students that use the Veterans Success Center,” said SVO President Figueroa, Army veteran and rehabilitation counseling graduate student, who rechartered the Student Veterans Organization in 2022.

Some of the initiatives include the creation of a food and snack pantry, as well as the SVO Hygiene Commissary, that students can access for free at the Veterans Success Center. Students can stop by the pantry to grab chips, granola bars and frozen foods while the commissary includes items, such as feminine hygiene products, deodorant and toothpaste.

The Student Veterans Organization has successfully secured donations to support both the pantry and commissary, as well as students facing financial challenges. For example, the SVO received a generous donation of nearly $22,000 worth of bedding, which was shared with Basic Needs and Student Support. The department then distributed the items to students in need. These initiatives have helped strengthen the bond between the veterans on campus and the surrounding community.

In the Student Veterans Organization, members engage with each other to create a support system and inspire one another to achieve their goals. Additionally, SVO educates its members about veteran benefits and resources, prepares them for life after college, and provides tutoring and math coaching.

“We focus on three simple things: engagement, education and inspiration,” said Figueroa. “Whatever we can do to help our student veterans thrive at Cal State San Bernardino, we're going to make it happen.”

This is accomplished through the numerous events the SVO host throughout the year, including networking opportunities, workshops and social gatherings designed to connect members with one another. These activities were integral in creating a sense of camaraderie and ensuring that veterans and their families feel supported as they navigate their educational journey at CSUSB.

Beyond social events, the SVO engages in service to the campus and local community. Members participate in volunteer initiatives, including a community service project hosted by the Disabled American Veterans chapter that provides holiday meals to veterans’ families in need.

Through its impactful programs and leadership, the Student Veterans Organization has proven to be a cornerstone of support for students at CSUSB. By emphasizing engagement and community service, the SVO not only enhances the student experience but also builds lasting connections between veterans and the local and campus community.

For more information, visit the Student Veterans Organization webpage.