Operation Education Fall Semester Update: University of Toledo

This fall marked an exciting milestone for 3rd & Goal Foundation as we officially launched Operation Education at the University of Toledo. As our first year serving veteran and active military students on UT’s campus, we are incredibly proud of the impact this program has already made and even more excited about what’s ahead.

During the semester, Operation Education impacted more than 120 student veterans and active military-connected students at the University of Toledo. From day one, our goal was to support these students as they transitioned back into the classroom, helping them feel connected, supported, and confident in their path toward earning a college degree.

The results speak for themselves. This year, 98% of new military-connected students at UT remained enrolled and continued their education, a significant improvement over prior years when continuation rates were in the mid-80% range. Both UT and 3rd & Goal recognize Operation Education as a key contributor to this progress.

Our programming and initiatives were designed to ease the transition to college life by bringing together like-minded students who share similar experiences. These opportunities reinforced a powerful message: you are not alone, you can do this. Through social, educational, and community building programming, students were able to form meaningful connections, support one another, and enjoy moments of fun and fellowship that would not have been possible without our partnership.

Programming also supported academic success. By offering incentives and resources within the Veterans Lounge, students were encouraged to study, spend time on campus, and take advantage of a dedicated space created specifically for them.

A standout initiative this semester was Operation Gobble Gobble, where 20 veteran and active military students received Thanksgiving meals to prepare and share with their families. This initiative mirrored the program we also implemented in Dublin, Ohio, and served as a reminder that support extends beyond the classroom, especially during the holidays.

Some of the semester’s most impactful and well-attended events included:

• Welcome Back BBQ

• Mandatory Military Orientation

• Veteran Experience Panel

• Veterans Day Breakfast

• Ongoing Veterans Lounge programming

  
  

As we look ahead to next semester, Operation Education will continue at the University of Toledo, and we are thrilled to announce that 10 veteran students will be awarded scholarships to further support their educational journeys.

This semester made one thing clear: without 3rd & Goal Foundation, this programming would not have been able to occur. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve those who have served our country and are honored to walk alongside them as they pursue their academic goals.

We can’t wait to see what next semester brings.