Recruit, retain, graduate—it’s a military and Veteran’s initiative at The University of New Mexico organized with the goal of better supporting the presence of this community on campus.

To engage Veterans and military members, the Student Veterans of UNM and the Veterans Resource Center host the Sound-Off Conference on Tuesday, April 17.

“This event celebrates the military and Veteran presence on the UNM campus, which empowers students through direct engagement with community service organizations like Eagle Talon and Krypteia, NM DVS, Boeing Corp as well as UNM programs, resources, and services,” says Eliberto Calderon, president of the UNM Student Veterans Association.

Student Veterans and active members of the military and their family members are encouraged to participate in the day-long conference from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Student Union Building (SUB) ballrooms A, B and C.

Opening ceremonies and activities will be held in the lower level atrium area. UNM President Stokes and Regent President Doughty will be welcome participants and open the event. Tables providing services available for attendees will be in ballrooms A & B. Breakout information sessions and panels will be held on the 3rd floor of the SUB.

“Breakout sessions will be informative about the military and Veteran community and the unique opportunities that are available,” said Calderon. 

Breakout sessions include:

  • Boeing will present on their hiring process, research interest fields (STEM) and business partnerships. 
  • Eagle Talon and Krypteia will be presenting opportunities for disabled (non-veterans and veterans) people for funding of business start-up, continuing education funding and other services. 
  • Law school representatives will present on the application and successful completion of a law program. 
  • Student Affairs will present on resources and services available to all students on campus. 
  • Student Veterans will present on ‘Utilizing the Power of the Veteran Community’. Veteran Upward Bound will present on their educational transition services. 
  • Veteran Resource Center will present their Green Zone Training to educate our administration, faculty and staff about the Veteran community.

Everyone in the New Mexico community is invited to attend as programs, resources and services are available. For example, a working veteran that does not want to use his/her G.I. Bill may share it with their dependent (chapter 35) to pay for college. Or disabled individuals can talk with Eagle Talon or Krypteia to enroll in services. 

For more information, visit the Veterans Resource Center website or contact Eliberto Calderon at Budha14@unm.edu.