Jasmine Coleman, director of Academic and Military Outreach at UNC Pembroke, has been named among the 2024 Veteran Champions of the Year in Higher Education by the Military Friendly program.
The recognition celebrates those who go above and beyond in advocating for the advancement and success of student veterans in higher education. This year’s recipients were published in the October issue of G.I. Jobs, a global publication that connects service members, veterans and their families to civilian career, education and business opportunities.
In her role at UNCP, Coleman ensures military students get the most out of their educational benefits and have the resources they need to be successful on campus. She also supports the Student Veteran Association and has participated in UNC System-wide work to improve credit policies that enable veterans to get proper recognition for the training they have completed.
“Jasmine embodies the spirit of dedication and service and has truly strengthened the veteran community on our campus,” said Dr. Kelly Brennan, vice chancellor for Enrollment Management at UNCP. “She works tirelessly as a champion of change to advocate for and uplift our veteran and military-affiliated students.”
Coleman, a U.S. Army veteran, military spouse, and military dependent, said she draws on her own experiences as a student veteran to provide comprehensive support to the diverse student population.
“My role allows me to support student veterans daily,” Coleman said. “No two student veterans are the same, so you can't rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. I pride myself on providing a customized concierge level of support to the UNCP military-affiliated student community daily.”
Home to more than 1,130 student veterans, UNCP is committed to assisting veterans in transitioning from military service to a successful academic experience.
UNCP is considered one of the top military-friendly universities in the country, as selected by U.S. News & World Report, Military Advanced Education & Transition magazine and Military Times magazine. For the 2023-2024 academic year, UNCP was ranked number three among small public universities. The university is also distinguished as Military Friendly, Military Spouse Friendly, Best for Vets and College of Distinction for Military Support.