Student veterans attending Grand Valley can receive assistance with their transition from military to college life through a program by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency and Michigan College Access Network.
Michigan Veteran Education Initiative, launched in 2015, supports veterans by locating local, state and federal resources to help them become successful as they transition into civilian life. The program places a veteran resource representative (VRR) on college campuses in Michigan.
Marq Hicks serves as the VRR at Grand Valley. He is trained to provide support and answer questions regarding resources offered at Grand Valley and by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. He also advises the Student Veterans of America Grand Valley chapter and the Peer Advisors for Veteran Education program.
Hicks, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, said the most helpful thing he can do is normalize veterans' experiences.
"I have first-hand knowledge of how challenging this transition can be, so my goal is to help student veterans in any way I can," Hicks said. "Grand Rapids is one of the best places to be a veteran, however, it can be difficult to know where to start."
Hicks received a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University and is currently pursuing his master's degree in public administration from Grand Valley.
He is available on Wednesdays at the Pew Grand Rapids Campus, and Thursdays at the Allendale Campus. Appointments can be made by contacting him at [email protected] or (616) 331-3311. Hicks also serves as the VRR for Grand Rapids Community College.
Grand Valley is committed to providing support and resources for service members and veterans, including in-state tuition for veterans and active military members who are stationed in Michigan. The university is a member of the Consortium of Michigan Veteran Educators and is part of the “8 Keys to Veterans’ Success” initiative through the U.S. Departments of Education and Veterans Affairs.
Most recently, Grand Valley received gold status — the highest status — from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency for its commitment to supporting student veterans.
