Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be a challenging journey. For veterans and military-affiliated students, higher education provides opportunities for growth but also comes with unique demands. Southern Nazarene University (SNU) recognizes these needs through its dedicated Veterans Educational Transitions Success (VETS) Center, a resource designed to support students as they pursue their educational and career goals. Led by Director Mark Nadig, the VETS Center is grounded in its principles to Support, Empower, and Connect.
Serving Those Who Served
The VETS Center at SNU is much more than an office—it’s a lifeline for over 200 veterans and military-affiliated students. Director Mark Nadig, a retired U.S. Army Engineer officer with 24 years of service, brings personal insight and leadership to his role. During his military career, Nadig deployed to eight different regions, gaining valuable experience in combat, operational missions, and training exercises. His commitment to service continues at SNU, where his team works tirelessly to help veterans succeed.
“Our vision is to be a trusted battle buddy for our veteran and military community,” Nadig explains. “Our purpose is to serve others well—our veterans and military-affiliated students, our SNU family, and our community.”
A Wide Range of Services
The VETS Center provides a variety of services to ensure students have the tools and resources they need. These include:
- Bridge Building: Serving as a link between students, the VA, and off-campus veteran service organizations.
- Building a Sense of Belonging: Helping students integrate into the SNU community, fostering connections with peers, staff, and faculty.
- Connections to Campus and Community Resources: From academic accommodations to career transition support, the center ensures students can access key resources.
- VA Education Benefits: Assisting students with accessing and managing their benefits.
“We see ourselves as bridge builders,” Nadig says. “We nurture partnerships and build relationships so we can connect our veterans to the experts. It’s all about serving them well.”
The Team Behind the Mission
The VETS Center team is small but mighty. Nadig likens them to an infantry fire team, with each member playing a vital role.
- Carol Hoipkemier serves as the VA Coordinator and School Certifying Official. With over 20 years of experience, Carol is known for her expertise and ability to bring joy to every interaction. As a military mom whose son serves in the United States Air Force Reserves, Veteran and military-affiliated students hold a special place in Carol's heart.
- Paul Diehm, the Veterans Certification Specialist and Outreach Representative, is beginning his professional career in higher education. Paul’s dedication and sense of purpose make him an invaluable part of the team.
Together, they create a welcoming environment where veterans and military-affiliated students can thrive.
Picture Below from Left to Right: Paul Diehm, Carol Hoipkemier, and Mark Nadig
Veterans as Ideal College Students
Military service instills qualities that make veterans exceptional learners. Discipline, punctuality, problem-solving, and teamwork are second nature to those who have served. Nadig emphasizes how these traits, combined with real-world experience, give veterans an edge in the classroom.
“The military is all about training and producing leaders,” he explains. “The drive they had in their military training and educational pursuits is the same drive that will allow them to succeed in college.”
Overcoming Challenges
For many veterans, balancing education with family, work, and community responsibilities can feel overwhelming. Nadig acknowledges these challenges but assures students that they don’t have to face them alone.
“My hope is that our student veterans know and understand that they are not alone,” Nadig says. “No one fights alone on the battlefield, and we certainly don’t want our student veterans to feel like they have to fight alone when going through these life transitions.”
By fostering trust and offering personalized support, the VETS Center helps students navigate their educational journey with confidence.
A Place That Honors Service
When veterans and military-affiliated students choose SNU, they’re joining a community that honors their service and is committed to their success. From the university’s mission statement to its guiding principles, SNU is focused on serving others and creating a supportive environment for all students.
“Our goals for veterans and military-affiliated students are simple,” Nadig shares. “We want them to know the full weight of our institution is supporting them, their service is honored, and they are part of a network walking beside them every step of the way.”
Consider SNU
For veterans looking to advance their education and career, SNU offers a supportive, understanding environment. The VETS Center stands at the ready to help each student achieve their goals while building connections that last a lifetime.
“At SNU, we’re here to be your battle buddy,” Nadig says. “We may not always get it right, but we’re always striving to learn, improve, and serve you well.”
If you’re a veteran or military-affiliated student considering higher education, SNU’s VETS Center is ready to walk alongside you on your journey. For more information, please call 405.717.6299 or email veterans@snu.edu.
