Veterans & Military Resource Center

Our Commitment

The VMRC is a dedicated place that veteran affiliated students and service members with common backgrounds, experiences, and goals can call their own, a place where they can study, connect and support each other.

We are committed to your success and understand the questions and concerns you may have.

Come into a welcoming center on any of our campuses and see for yourself.

I am proud and honored to welcome you to Central Community College as you continue your education, training and leadership development. As a child of a military veteran, I appreciate the enormous sacrifice, dedication and service you have shown to date. Our dedicated faculty, staff and administrators stand ready to serve you and guide you to reaching your next goal or to even help you determine that goal through compassionate veteran support staff.

As veterans or family members, I ask you to continue providing a strong example of leadership and role-modeling positive behavior in and out of the classroom for our non-veteran students. They have much to learn from you and will be better citizens as a result of your interactions.

CCC is not just a place for taking a class or earning a degree, it is a place where lifetime friendships and connections are made and where we want to become a familiar resource for you throughout your life.

Sincerely,

Matt Gotschall, PhD
College President
president@cccneb.edu

Barry Horner, veterans and military services director

Barry is a currently serving US Army First Sergeant for an Observer/Controller Trainer (OC/T) detachment in Elkhorn, NE. His 12 year active duty service started in 1980 until he transferred to the Reserves in 1992 after deploying to Iraq in support of Operations Desert Storm and Provide Comfort. His Reserve assignments afforded him the opportunity to become a certified Army Instructor in 2002. Since then, he has taught the Motor Transport Operator course, the Transportation Advanced and Senior Leadership courses and been the senior instructor and course manager for both of those Army professional education schools. He has also taught the Army Instructor and Small Group Leader courses as well as the OC/T Academy. In his 40th year of service, Barry will officially hang up his boots in May 2021. Barry has earned degrees from University of Maryland and Bellevue University and will complete his Master’s degree in February 2021.

Barry has been with CCC since 1995 and was the Senior Server Administrator in the Information Technology Services department until he became the Veteran and Military Services Director in September 2020.

Barry and his wife live in Aurora, have 5 daughters and 11 grandchildren. Traveling and taking cruises are high on the entertainment/vacation list, as is attending live music events.

Location: Grand Island Campus, Veterans and Military Resource Center, Room 444
Email: bhorner@cccneb.edu 
Phone: 308-398-7376   

Ashley Allen, outreach coordinator: Hastings Campus

Ashley is a U.S. Army veteran who served as a mental health care specialist with the Army MEDDAC in Fort Stewart, Ga., from 2008 to 2012. During this time, she worked in both inpatient and outpatient mental health care settings. After her service obligation, she enrolled at Central Community College and earned an associate of applied science degree in human services along with a psychiatric technician certificate. During her time as a student at CCC, she was a veterans affairs work-study in the Veterans and Military Resource Center and served as vice president of the Hastings Campus’ Student Veterans of America chapter. After graduating from CCC, she went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science from Bellevue University, and her Masters in Aromatherapy from the American College of Healthcare Sciences.

Ashley and her husband, Anthony, live in Hastings with their three girls: Tayla, Jane, and Rylee. Ashley finds joy in raising and keeping up with her children and spending time with her family. She enjoys movies, riding horses, camping and traveling to warmer climates.

Location: Hastings Campus, Veterans and Military Resource Center 
Email:  ashleyallen@cccneb.edu
Phone: 402-460-2137

Shawn Patsios, coordinator: Kearney Center

Shawn Patsios is no stranger to veteran’s needs, having nearly fourteen years of service, most of which have been with the Nebraska Air National Guard. His deep passion for higher education, specifically student services, allowed him to serve an Admissions Counselor for Wayne State College, and an Office Associate at UNK.

The majority of his civilian career has been spent in the finance and banking sector. Shawn most recently has served as a Mortgage Loan Officer, and Assistant Branch Manager with U.S. Bank in Kearney, where he was awarded as a top performer over numerous quarters.

As a Mortgage Loan Officer, Shawn was responsible for helping first time homebuyers, subsequent buyers, and refinances. His passion of caring for his customers, allowed for relationships that have continued over the years. 

Shawn grew up in Kearney and graduated in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in Business Communications. He is also an alumnus of Leadership Kearney, Class #26 through the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce.

In his spare time, Shawn can be found volunteering with Junior Achievement, spending quality time with his family and friends, running, and anything Husker or Vikings Football.

Location: Kearney Center, Veterans and Military Resource Center
Email: shawnpatsios@cccneb.edu
Phone: 308-338-4049

Certifyng Officials

The application and admission process for veterans is a bit more involved than for typical students. The VMRC is eager to guide you so that you don't miss out on any opportunities specific to veterans. Before you apply, however, we encourage you to call, email or stop by our office.

We will:

• Walk you through the application process
• Explain the GI Bill, including benefits and requirements
• Guide and assist you and your family in applying for these benefits
• Put you in contact with your academic program of interest
• Connect you with CCC's admissions and financial aid offices

**Official correspondences are sent to your CCC student email account, so please be sure to check your account often. Important notices affecting your benefits that are time sensitive are often disregarded by students because they forget to check their email!

As a veteran, you and eligible dependents are entitled to certain benefits and are eligible to participate in certain programs. If you are qualified and wish to use your Veterans Educational Benefits you must be admitted to a state-approved degree or certificate program and complete the appropriate chapter paperwork. Contact the VMRC office on your campus for assistance. 

More about VA Education Benefits

Military Tuition Assistance

Federal Tuition Assistance

The Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) program provides financial assistance to students currently serving in the national guard, reserves, or on Active Duty for voluntary education programs that support professional and personal self-development goals. Enrollment requests must be submitted and approved through GoArmyEd prior to the course start date. All other application and approval questions should be addressed to your unit or the ArmyIgnitED help line at 1-877-272-1330. 

For additional information, Eligibility, Benefits, and steps on how to apply, visit armyignited.com.

Nebraska - State Tuition Assistance 

Nebraska State Tuition Assistance program is funded by the State of Nebraska and is an educational benefit for Nebraska Army National Guard and Nebraska Air Guard students. This program provides 75% of Tuition up to in-state rate however student must exhaust FTA first. Enlisted personnel only, only to the bachelor’s level, must agree to serve an additional 3 years with NEARNG. Payment directly to school upon successful completion of course. Note there are required deadlines prior to course registration.

Eligibility, Requirements and Application

Reservist Tuition Credit Program

Nebraska residents who are enlisted members of a Nebraska-based unit of the Active Selected Reserve may be eligible for a 50% tuition credit to the University of Nebraska campuses, Nebraska state colleges and Nebraska community colleges. This program is allowed 200 new applicants each calendar year.

The University of Nebraska, the Nebraska State College System, and the Nebraska Community College System participate in a tuition credit program that will provide a credit for 50% of the tuition charges for enlisted members of Nebraska-based units of the Active Reserve of the armed forces of the United States; as set forth in NE Revised State Statutes 80-901, 80-902 & 80-903. Note there are required deadlines prior to course registration.

Eligibility requirements and application

At any point Central Community College’s Education Service Officer in our Veterans and Military Resource Center can assist and direct you.

Federal Financial Aid

There are multiple types of aid for qualified students that include grants, loans, and work study. Check out our financial aid page for more information.

Scholarships

CCC students can apply for several privately funded scholarships, including the Veterans and Military Appreciation Scholarship and the Women Veterans Scholarship and are encouraged to do so.

Veterans Appreciation Scholarship

Central Community College created the general Veterans Appreciation Scholarship to express its gratitude to the men and women who have served our country honorably. The scholarship offers multiple scholarships up to $500 to help offset the costs of higher education and make college accessible.

Dependents Scholarship

CCC recognizes the unique challenges today’s military families face in pursuing additional training or education. Frequent moves make it difficult to complete programs and establish a career. We are here to help ease the financial obstacles that accompany pursuing a higher education

Women Veterans Scholarship in Honor of Wilma Kellogg

This scholarship encourages women veterans and women currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces to achieve their academic and career goals by helping to ease the financial burden that accompany pursuing a higher education. This scholarship is open to all military women and women veterans who are full-time or part-time students at CCC and are working toward an associate degree.

Scholarship Eligibility 

Dependent of a family member serving any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces with or without VA educational assistance may be eligible.

• Dependent must provide a valid military ID.
• Must be enrolled at Central Community College at least half time.
• Must maintain satisfactory academic progress per the Financial Aid Office.
• Be pursuing his/her degree or diploma.
• Selection is based on academic achievement, employment and school activities, quality of the personal statement, application completeness and recommendations.

Application Dates

Applications Available: October 1

Application Deadline: March 1

Award Announcement: April 15

Apply for Scholarships 

MyCAA at Central Community College

The Department of Defense has made funds available through the Military Spouse Career Advancement Account program (MyCAA) to help pay for licenses, certifications and associate degrees in high-growth, high-demand, portable career fields. CCC is proud to be a participant in the MyCAA program.

For specific details on the MyCAA program, refer to the official MyCAA website. 

The Student Veterans Association is dedicated to the pride, visibility and success of veterans. We are a group of student veterans who are interested in giving back to our community and fellow military members and veterans through community service projects and fundraising. Anyone can join!

If you are a veteran, active duty service member, dependent of a past or current service member or a troop supporter, then you are invited to join a Central Community College SVA chapter at the Columbus, Grand Island, Kearney or Hastings campus.
Meetings are scheduled on a regular basis. Dates and times are posted at CCC’s Veterans and Military Resource Centers.

SALUTE stands for Service, Academics, Leadership, Unity, Tribute and Excellence. It is a national academic honor society recognizing student veterans and military personnel who have demonstrated outstanding performance in an academic setting.

Membership Criteria

Membership in SALUTE is by invitation only and is open to all CCC veteran students. Eligible students will be notified and encouraged to complete the application process.

Contact Jaycee Carroll at jayceecarroll@cccneb.edu

HONORING WOMEN OF MILITARY SERVICE FROM ALL GENERATIONS 

Wilma Kellogg First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Veteran

Women Veterans Scholarship in Honor of Wilma Kellogg, U.S. Army First Lieutenant

If you would like more information about this event or would like to be put on the mailing list for next year, please fill out a short form.

Join our mailing list

Women Veterans Scholarship

This scholarship was created in honor of Wilma Kellogg, a U.S. Army veteran with significant service in the military and on the home front. Wilma served in the U.S. Army during WWII as a nurse from September 1944 through March 1946, achieving the rank of first lieutenant. She traveled to England where she served in the General Hospital Unit, which followed soldiers to France, Belgium and Germany. She is decorated with the EAME Theatre Ribbon, a Bronze Battle Star, two Overseas Bars and the Victory Medal.

This scholarship encourages women veterans and women who are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces to achieve their academic and career goals by helping to ease the financial burden that accompany pursuing a higher education.

This scholarship is based upon academic achievement and leadership as expressed through co-curricular activities and community involvement. It is open to all military women and women veterans who are full-time or part-time students at CCC and are working toward an associate degree.

Donations

To donate to this scholarship, please make checks payable to Central Community College Foundation with “Women’s Vet Scholarship” in the memo or

Donate Online

Central Community College stands by their veterans by recognizing those who have sacrificed for this country. Purple Heart parking signs are posted on the Columbus, Grand Island and Hastings campuses. We are one of only a few educational institutions in the nation to proudly show this commitment.

Sign up for your red, white and-blue honor cords

Veterans and Military Graduation Cord

As a symbolic initiative honoring our CCC graduating veteran and military students, red, white and blue honor cords will be made available to any graduating veteran student interested in wearing one during commencement. These cords signify CCC’s appreciation toward our military and veteran students for their service and sacrifice. Click the appropriate button below to sign up.

Student    Faculty/Staff

SALUTE Honor Society 

SALUTE is national academic honor society recognizing student veterans and military personnel who have demonstrated outstanding performance in the academic setting. One of the primary goals of SALUTE is to acknowledge and recognize members who have shown courage, strength, leadership, excellence and perseverance in their military endeavors and now are showing that same commitment to their academic careers.

Learn More About SALUTE

VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System 

Suicide Prevention Hotlines

• VA Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) Vets: press '1' for assistance.
• RCS Combat Call Center: 877-WARVETS (1-877-927-8387).

Military ONE SOURCE

1-800-342-9647
Military OneSource offers educational materials and services for everyday life to current service members and their families.

Nebraska Department of Labor 

The Nebraska Department of Labor provides specialized services to men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces who have bravely served our country. Career Centers have specially trained veterans staff to assist other veterans with employment and training opportunities.

Military-to-Civilian Resume Builder

This service is provided in association with the Hiring Our Heroes initiative.

O*Net Online

Find civilian-comparable careers based on transferable skill sets.

USA Jobs

USA Jobs is the federal government's official one-stop source for federal jobs and employment information.

Military ONESOURCE

1-800-342-9647
This organization provides various kinds of services including brief counseling to veterans and their families if the veteran is still on active duty. Reservists and National Guard personnel can also use this organization if they are still on active duty.

National Military Family Association

For military service personnel and their families.

American Gold Star Moms

Designed for mothers who have lost a son or daughter in the service of our country.

Blue Star Mothers

Designed for mothers who now have or have had children serving in the military.

Military Family Network

Created to link together community organizations, local governments and businesses with the goal of supporting family members of our armed services.

Operation HOMEFRONT

Designed to improve military quality of life with a wide range of information for troops and families.

Our Military Children

For children of deployed National Guard and reserve military.

The Principles of Excellence program requires schools receiving federal funding through programs such as the GI Bill to provide Veteran students their College Financial Plan, formerly known as a shopping sheet. Follow this link, College Financing Plan, log in with your student credentials and you will be able to view your personal summary of the total cost of your educational program, the costs covered by your benefits, the financial aid you may qualify for, your expected student-loan debt after you graduate and other information to help you compare aid packages offered by different schools. If you are unable to log in to WebCentral to view your plan, contact the service center at 308-398-7999. If your plan is empty or you receive a message there is no plan, please contact the Financial Aid office on your campus.