Spring Impact Report: Operation Education at The Ohio State University

At the 3rd & Goal Foundation, we believe no veteran should have to navigate the transition to civilian and college life alone. That belief continues to come to life through our Operation Education partnership at The Ohio State University, and we are proud to share the impact you are helping make possible.

This spring, seven Peer Sponsors served throughout the entire semester, supporting 44 new student veterans as they adjusted to campus life. These Peer Sponsors became trusted resources, helping fellow veterans navigate everything from orientation to academic success and the complexities in between.

Over the course of the semester, Peer Sponsors provided 242 phone calls and 115 in-person meetings in the Veterans Lounge, along with consistent weekly outreach through email and text. Behind these numbers are hundreds of meaningful interactions focused on helping student veterans move forward with confidence.

Peer Sponsors supported students across a wide range of needs, including 343 transition issues and GI Bill certification questions, 15 additional education benefit inquiries, 22 Veterans Success on Campus counseling connections, 17 academic advising conversations, 2 mental and physical health referrals, and 7 admissions-related questions.

The real impact of this program is best understood through the individual stories behind the numbers.

One Peer Sponsor worked with a veteran experiencing homelessness who had been misinformed about his education benefits and was unsure what support he qualified for. Through clear and consistent guidance, the Peer helped him understand his options and begin the process of applying to Ohio State, giving him a path forward during an incredibly uncertain time.

Another Peer supported a mother and son navigating the loss of a husband and father. With the student stepping away from school, they felt overwhelmed trying to manage the transition of education benefits on their own. The Peer Sponsor took the time to walk them through every detail, ensuring that when the student is ready to return, everything will be in place. In that moment, the role went far beyond paperwork and became a source of stability and understanding.

A third Peer connected with a former Air Force student who was struggling to adjust to civilian and college life and felt something was missing. After a conversation about the National Guard, the Peer was able to connect him with the right resources. He is now serving in a role that provides the structure and sense of purpose he had been looking for.

These moments reflect the heart of Operation Education. They show what is possible when veterans are supported not only with resources but with people who understand their experiences and are ready to step in when it matters most.

We are incredibly grateful for the role our supporters continue to play in making this work possible. From providing snacks in the Veterans Lounge to supporting networking opportunities, finals motivation kits, and experiences like attending The Memorial Tournament, every contribution helps strengthen the veteran community on campus.

There is still more work to do, but together, we are creating lasting impact.