Arkansas State University has been named a top school for veterans by *U.S. Veterans Magazine*, highlighting the university’s dedication to supporting military-connected students. The Beck Center for Veterans, established nearly 20 years ago with initial funding from alumni Buddy and Charlotte Beck, plays a significant role in these efforts.
“The university has gone above and beyond in advocating for veteran students,” said Johnathon A. Mullins, a veteran graduate student who works at the center. He emphasized that the recognition reflects a deeper commitment from university leaders who prioritize helping students with their challenges. “In my experience, when we have brought a legitimate student problem to senior university leadership, I have not seen them simply refer that student back down the chain. They have tried to help solve the problem,” Mullins said.
The Beck Center serves as a comprehensive resource for veterans navigating their educational paths. Mullins noted the importance of awareness about the center's offerings, explaining that many veterans, whether they use Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits or not, remain unaware of available services. He said, “The more our name is out there, the more students become aware of us, and ultimately that helps us fulfill our goal of helping veterans stay in school and successfully navigate their academic journey.”
More than 1,000 military veterans have earned associate, bachelor, and technical degrees with the support of the Beck Center since it opened. To qualify for assistance, veterans provide documentation such as a DD214 or other proof of military service. From there, staff members, including center director Jana Haskins, work to address academic, financial, and personal needs.
The center provides a dedicated space for student veterans, offering free access to services such as printing, a quiet study area, and a lounge to relax between classes. It also supports both on-campus and online students with VA education benefits and other resources.
“We also try to make it a place where students actually want to spend time,” Mullins said. “They can come in and use the printer, find a quiet place to study, or just lie back on one of the couches and watch a movie between classes.”
The Beck Center for Veterans regularly organizes fundraisers, including a golf tournament and a 5K run, to sustain and expand the services it offers. Veterans or military-connected students seeking assistance can reach the Beck Center by calling 870-972-2624 or emailing BeckCenter4vets@AState.edu.