Ohio Veterans Education Council

The Ohio Veterans Education Council (OVEC) is an organization dedicated to assisting veterans in accessing educational opportunities in the state of Ohio. It provides resources and support to veterans and their families to help them navigate the various educational benefits and programs available to them, including the GI Bill and other state-specific initiatives. OVEC may also advocate for policies that support veterans’ education and work to improve access to higher education for veterans across Ohio.

OVEC Co-Chairs

Eric Buetikofer

The University of Toledo

eric.buetikofer@toledo.edu

419-530-4137

Terry St. Peter

Ohio University

stpete@ohio.edu

740-593-4180

OHIO MILITARY STUDENT INITIATIVE

The Ohio General Assembly has approved new funding to strengthen higher education opportunities for veterans, service members, and their families. Passed as part of Ohio’s state budget, House Bill 95 provides targeted support to colleges and universities that are part of the Ohio Veterans Education Council (OVEC). This investment will expand programs, resources, and support systems that help military-connected students successfully transition from service to campus to career, reinforcing Ohio’s position as a national leader in veteran education and opportunity.

How The Funds Will Be Used

In collaboration with the National Veterans Leadership Foundation (NVLF), $2,500 stipends will fund Military Community Advocates (MCA). Six at Ohio’s public universities and three at public community colleges or private nonprofit institutions. These Military Community Advocates are recognized for their leadership and dedication to creating more inclusive, supportive campuses for veterans, service members, and their families.

NVLF Advancement Awards provide seed funding of up to $5,000 to campus military and veterans offices to help strengthen programs, expand resources, and grow private philanthropy. To be eligible, campuses must have a development office staff member assigned to support the effort. These grants assist offices that often operate with limited staff and resources, helping them better serve veterans, service members, and military families across Ohio’s campuses.

Staff from campus military and veterans offices will have the opportunity to attend the NVLF Advancement Institute at no cost, gaining valuable professional development and training. This initiative equips them with the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to strengthen campus programs and better support military-connected students across Ohio.

This investment directly supports the campuses, programs, and leaders shaping a stronger future for Ohio’s military-connected students.


NVLF Office Hours

NVLF Office Hours can provide expert guidance on starting and implementing an MCA program, competing for National Fellowships, or even answer questions about applications, how to pick students, and deadlines. 


Meet With:

  • Mike Carrell, NVLF Chief Operating Officer – Experienced as a Director of a campus MilVet Office and 13 years with MCAs in Ohio and nationally.
  • Laura Gaines, NVLF Program Director – Experienced in the administration of all NVLF Student programs, including the MCAs and Fellows.
  • Jan 20, 1 p.m. Ohio Office Hours: bring any questions on any NVLF Ohio Programs
  • Feb 10, 1 p.m. Ohio Office Hours: bring any questions on any NVLF Ohio Programs
NVLF Advancement Coaching 

NVLF Advancement Coaching Sessions can help you figure out how to develop sustainable funding for your MilVet office and programming.  Whether you need a single consultation or ongoing guidance, this free service from NVLF helps you develop effective approaches to strengthen resources and opportunities for military-connected students.


Meet With

  • Jim Miller, NVLF President – Brings advancement and leadership expertise from The Ohio State University.
  • Keenan Delaney, Director of Corporate Development – Experienced in corporate partnerships and nonprofit funding.
  • Rich Wurtzberger, Director of Advancement – Veteran fundraiser with a strong background in philanthropy and sponsorships.
    • Jan 27, 2 p.m. Advancement Coaching Session: share initial ideas
    • Feb 17, 2 p.m. Advancement Coaching Session: share & refine initial ideas

    Key Meeting Dates

    Further information will be shared by email

    • 11/4/25, 1:00 pm: Intro to the MCA Program
      Zoom – for Mil-Vet directors and other staff
    • 11/18/25, 1:00 pm: Intro to NVLF Grants
      Zoom – for Mil-Vet directors and development leads
    • 1/20/26: NVLF Office Hours
      Zoom – get help with your applications
    • 2/10/26: NVLF Office Hours
      Zoom – get help with your applications
    • 3/3/26: Ohio Campus-to-Career Day
      In-person – for two top students (directors optional)
    • 3/4/26: Ohio Advancement Institute
      In-person – for up to four campus staff
    • 6/9/26: IUCMilitary Connected Student Symposium
      In-person – Ohio State House

    ©2025 OVEC