West Virginia University recently named Jerry McCarthy director of WVU Veterans Affairs. Since May 2012, McCarthy has helped more than 800 WVU student veterans transition to normal civilian life as the WVU interim veteran advocate.

Prior to his position as interim veteran advocate, McCarthy served for six years as the undergraduate academic advisor for the military community for students in the University College Advising.

“Jerry has extensive experience in the military and higher education and understands the needs of our veteran students,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Ken Gray. “WVU is committed to providing a supportive environment for military students, and I am confident that Jerry will do an outstanding job supporting our veterans and continue to ensure their success on campus.”

McCarthy is a 20-year active duty service veteran who is experienced and passionate about representing veteran’s interests. He has helped veterans transition from the military to college and continues to explore ways to improve veterans’ academic opportunities, identify goals and face the challenges that are different than the traditional student population.

He holds a master’s degree in public administration and a master’s of legal studies from WVU, and is currently a doctoral student in the political science department.

“I would like to thank West Virginia University for this honor and the opportunity to serve those who have served,” McCarthy said. “Veterans in higher education bring a unique character, integrity and life experience to campus and face challenges that are different than the traditional population. We want to do everything we can to assist them with a smooth transition from military life to careers through education.

WVU Veteran Affairs is a one-stop-shop for student veterans. The office assists students with the G.I. Bill to help fund their education while enrolled and helps students who are on or off active duty. They are also involved in developing, implementing and supervising special programs and veteran organizations on campus.

Additionally, the office offers rehabilitation counseling, parent relations counseling, and therapy for veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder. Special academic advisors are also available to work one on one with the students to help build a schedule that accommodates veteran students’ drills and various programs.

Earlier this year, WVU was named a Military Friendly School by G.I. Jobs Magazine for the fifth-consecutive year.

-WVU-

ta/11/15/13

CONTACT: Kim Mosby, Student Life
304.293.5611; Kim.Mosby@mail.wvu.edu

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