Beyond Veterans Day, CUW celebrates those who served through year-round empathy, education and Christ-like care.
Every November, Concordia University Wisconsin takes time to honor those who have served our nation. But beyond a single day or event, the university’s commitment to veterans continues year-round—through hands-on empathy training, academic and emotional support, and an enduring mission to serve others in Christ-like love.
Today on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Dr. Mikaely Schmitz, associate professor of Speech-Language Pathology, will participate in a special in-depth Veterans Day hour at 3:45 p.m. on 620 WTMJ in Milwaukee. She will share how Concordia helps future clinicians better understand and serve those who have served our country. Her reflections on empathy, service and faith in action set the stage for an upcoming hands-on experience that brings those ideas to life.
On Wednesday, Nov. 12, Schmitz will join second-year graduate students from Concordia’s Speech-Language Pathology program for a special Veterans Empathy Training session at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, 5000 W. National Ave., Milwaukee. The event takes place during National Veterans and Military Families Month, a time set aside to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of service members and their loved ones.
Through small-group discussions, volunteer veterans will share their experiences of military culture and healthcare, helping Concordia students explore the role of empathy in effective clinical care. The training encourages future clinicians to listen, learn and apply understanding in ways that support the unique needs of veteran populations.
“Engaging directly with veterans allows our students to listen deeply, learn humbly, and grow in compassion and understanding—skills essential to their roles as future professionals,” Schmitz said. “We are grateful to the Milwaukee VA and to the veterans who make this experience possible.”
The Veterans Empathy Training experience aligns with Concordia’s mission to develop students in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. By learning from those who have served, Concordia students prepare to serve others with integrity, compassion and Christ-like care.
In addition, Concordia’s social work students have an opportunity to engage with the veteran community and practice their intake skills. This will take place Nov. 20 this year, with visits to the Boudicca House, 3016 N. 45th St., transitional housing for female veterans, as well as Vets Place Central, 3330 W. Wells St.
“Social work is not a profession that can be learned through coursework alone. It requires real-world engagement, empathy, and connection,” said Nichole Ostrowski, assistant professor and director of the Bachelor of Social Work program.
“Our BSW students spend their entire senior year in a field placement, and opportunities like this one help prepare them for that experience,” she continued. “It is especially meaningful that this event focuses on engaging with the veteran community. Veterans bring such strength, resilience and perspective, and our students gain invaluable insight from hearing their stories and building rapport through the intake process.”
Ongoing Support for Military and Veteran Students
That same spirit of service extends beyond the classroom. Through a variety of campus programs and resources, Concordia provides ongoing support to its veteran and military-affiliated students, helping them thrive academically, socially and spiritually.
Veterans Resource Centers on campus serve as dedicated hubs of support for military and dependent students. Staff members assist with VA benefits, academic resources, and peer connections—ensuring every student feels known, valued, and supported. For those studying from a distance, Concordia offers virtual services and communication options.
Recognizing the unique challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian and academic life, Concordia’s flexible post-traditional programs are designed for working adults balancing family, work and service commitments. Courses are available online or in the evening, allowing students to pursue their degrees at their own pace while maintaining balance in other areas of life.
Counseling and mental health services are also available for any student who needs them. The Counseling Center provides confidential, Christ-centered care—complete with comfort dogs, Zoey, Sage and Runner, and peer support opportunities through the Falcon Peer Support Network (FPSN). FPSN encourages resilience and community through weekly gatherings led by student directors under the supervision of Student Wellness staff. Veterans Services also has its own therapy dog, Trixie.
Ongoing Support for Military and Veteran Students
Academic success is another cornerstone of Concordia’s support for veterans. The Academic Resource Center (ARC) offers tutoring, accessibility services, and academic skill-building opportunities, while the Center for Academic Advising and Career Engagement (CAACE) provides professional guidance for students discerning their vocational paths. The Alumni Mentor Program connects current students with Concordia graduates who share career insights and personal encouragement.
Through these efforts, Concordia continues to live out its calling: to care for others as Christ first cared for us. From empathy training at the Milwaukee VA to daily acts of service and support on campus, Concordia honors the sacrifice of veterans not only through words—but through education, compassion and community rooted in faith.
For further reading, “Real stories, real impact: CUW SLP students learn with veterans, providers and peers in powerful evening of connection.”
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran institution that is proud to be Military Friendly. You can be assured that we are committed to providing first class service to support our Active, Reserve and Veteran personnel and their families. CUW has been serving the needs of students since 1881 as a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit. Concordia is nationally recognized and fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission-North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. For more information about CUW’s military-friendly programs and services, click the link below.