The 2025 NCACVA Conference: A Commitment to Our Military Affiliated Students

Our dedicated School Certifying Officials (SCOs) from Campbell University had the privilege of attending the 2025 North Carolina Association of Coordinators of Veterans Affairs (NCACVA) Conference in Cherokee, NC in March.

The conference was not only an opportunity for professional development but also a chance for our SCOs to forge invaluable connections with fellow officials from institutions across North Carolina. Amanda McRae reflected on the experience, saying, “We had a great time coming together to become better informed VA School Certifying Officials. Not only did we fellowship with our Campbell campus SCOs, but we got to meet other institution SCOs within the state of North Carolina. We shared best practices and learned about many of the changes to VA legislation that has happened over the last year.” This collaborative environment fostered an atmosphere of growth and learning, essential for the continuous improvement of our services.

Campbell team members Juli Rowland, Faye Thompson, Amanda McRae, Deanna Girard, and Thomas Owens.

One of the highlights of the conference was the insightful session led by Past NAVPA President Dr. Jan Del Signore. Her discussion focused on pressing issues currently being advocated on Capitol Hill, aimed at supporting schools in their efforts to best serve our VA students. This critical dialogue is vital as it ensures that our SCOs remain at the forefront of legislative changes that impact the educational experiences of our veterans.

The importance of community and teamwork in the role of an SCO was a recurring theme throughout the conference. Juli Rowland articulated this sentiment perfectly, stating that she was reminded “that SCOs are more than a job; you are a part of that veterans team and your school team.” This perspective emphasizes the commitment our SCOs have not only to their roles but to the veterans and military families they serve.

Thomas Owens also shared his thoughts, expressing, “Once again, a wonderful opportunity for new SCOs and veteran SCOs to network and discuss best practices for taking care of veterans and military affiliated students pursuing higher education.” This exchange of knowledge and experiences is crucial in ensuring that our SCOs are equipped with the latest insights and strategies to assist our students effectively.

While this training is just a small piece of the comprehensive support our SCOs provide, it underscores the commitment and passion they have for their work. At Campbell University, we are proud to stand alongside our military affiliated Camels, ensuring they receive the

best possible resources and guidance in their educational journeys. The dedication shown by our SCOs at the NCACVA Conference reflects our ongoing mission to empower and uplift our veteran community.

As we move forward, we will continue to champion the needs of our military students, advocating for their success and well-being. Together, we can make a significant difference in their educational experiences and beyond.