Jefferson and Syracuse Veteran Affairs Partner to Bring VITAL Program to Local Veterans

Through a strategic partnership with the Syracuse Veterans Affairs (VA) Office, Jefferson Community College (JCC) is expanding support for Veteran students by bringing the nationally recognized Veterans Integration to Academic Leadership (VITAL) Program to campus. VITAL is designed to connect Veterans with world-class VA health care while supporting their successful transition and integration into college and university life. On average, 42% of Jefferson’s student body is comprised of veterans, service members, family members, and retirees. 

The VITAL program offers seamless access to both VA and campus-based resources, including transition and adjustment counseling, mental health and wellness support, and help navigating campus and VA programs and benefits. As more Veterans pursue undergraduate or advanced degrees after military service, programs like VITAL help address the unique challenges they may face including cultural adjustment, academic pressures, and physical or mental health needs.

“Jefferson is committed to supporting Veterans not only academically, but holistically,” says Joanna Brislan, Director of Military Enrollment and Workforce Solutions at Jefferson Community College. “Partnering with the Syracuse VA to bring the VITAL program to campus strengthens the network of support available to our Veteran students, helping them navigate the transition to college life while ensuring they have access to the health care, counseling, and resources they need to succeed.”

Sonya Mangovski, LCSW, Military to VA Program Manager, and VITAL Coordinator at the Syracuse VA Medical Center, says, “Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be overwhelming, and entering an academic environment adds another layer of complexity. VITAL bridges that gap, providing Veteran students the support they need to thrive both academically and personally.”

Daniel J. Dupee, II, President, says, “Jefferson Community College is committed to supporting veteran students during their transition from military service and as they pursue their career goals. With many of our staff who are veterans or military-affiliated, the College understands their unique needs. Bringing the VITAL Program to campus strengthens Jefferson’s dedication to providing the support, resources, and opportunities veterans need to succeed in the next chapter of their lives.”

Jason World Turner, Educational Planner of Veteran Services at JCC, says, “For many of our veteran students, knowing where to start can be the biggest challenge. VITAL strengthens our ability to connect students directly with the right resources at the right time, removing barriers and ensuring they receive coordinated support both on campus and through the VA.”

In addition to the VITAL Program, the College offers veteran students and their family members access to a private Veterans Lounge and a dedicated Veteran Services office on campus, as well as an office located at Fort Drum. Jefferson is designated a 2025 Best for Vets college by Military Times and a 2025 Military Friendly® Top 10 School and Military Friendly® Spouse School by VIQTORY.

For more information about Veteran Services at Jefferson.

For more information about the national VITAL program.