News
SCC and KCTCS are ready to welcome veterans under new GI Bill
Versailles, Ky. (August 5, 2009) – Somerset Community College and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) stands ready to educate a new generation of veterans as the federal government ushers in the most comprehensive veterans postsecondary education benefits since the 1944 G.I. Bill.
“KCTCS is perfectly positioned to meet the educational needs of veterans,” said KCTCS President Michael B. McCall. “The programs we offer are geared toward providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to be competitive in today’s workforce.”
KCTCS currently has more than 1,600 veterans enrolled in its statewide system of 16 community and technical colleges.
With 67 campuses located across the Commonwealth, along with more than 600 program options and flexible class schedules, KCTCS is uniquely positioned to provide veterans with the postsecondary benefits they need.
“One of the strengths of community and technical colleges is their experience in working with non-traditional, adult students,” said Dr. McCall. “KCTCS faculty and staff are extremely skilled and knowledgeable in working with veterans and the unique experiences they bring to the educational environment.”
The maximum benefit under the new law will allow every eligible veteran, serviceman and woman, Reservist and National Guard member to attend a public college or university for free for four years. They are also eligible for a monthly housing stipend and up to $1,000 a year for books.
Service members who agree to serve four more years in the military can opt to transfer the benefit to their spouse or kids. It's anticipated that nearly a half million veterans or their family members could participate in the first year.
Veronica DeBord is the veterans’ benefits specialist at SCC. She can be contacted by phone at (606)451-6647 or by e-mail at veronica.debord@kctcs.edu.
During the 2008-2009 Spring Semester, SCC had more than 90 veterans receiving educational benefits through Veterans Administration and 35 dependents of disabled veterans receiving benefits.
Debord said that she has already noticed an increase at SCC in applications by veterans for upcoming school year.
Somerset Community College
Veronica DeBord
(606)451-6647
veronica.debord@kctcs.edu
For most Kentuckians, higher education begins at KCTCS. Our statewide system of 16 colleges and 67 campuses provides citizens throughout the Commonwealth with a quality education that is both accessible and affordable. For more information, visit www.kctcs.edu
