The 3rd & Goal Veteran Mentor Program is Transforming Lives at the University of Cincinnati

At the 3rd & Goal Foundation, we believe that supporting our nation's veterans doesn't end when they leave military service. Through the 3rd & Goal Veteran Mentor Program at the University of Cincinnati, we're helping student veterans successfully transition to college, overcome challenges, and build a strong foundation for their future.

During the 2025–2026 academic year, the program served 125 student veterans, service members, and military-connected students across UC's Uptown, Blue Ash, and Clermont campuses. Many of these students are balancing full-time jobs, family responsibilities, military commitments, and the demands of earning a college degree. Having someone who understands those challenges can make all the difference.

Making an Impact

One of the biggest successes this year was the growth in mentor engagement. Mentors increased their outreach by nearly 38%, growing from 304 meaningful student contacts last year to 418 this year. Through phone calls, emails, virtual meetings, office visits, and one-on-one conversations, mentors helped veterans navigate military education benefits, connect with tutoring and campus resources, stay on track academically, and prepare for life after graduation.

Beyond academics, the program continues to foster a strong sense of community. The Veterans Lounge provides a welcoming place where student veterans can study, connect, and support one another, while events throughout the year including the Veterans Welcome Lunch, Veterans Day Ceremony, Military Appreciation events, networking sessions, and social gatherings help veterans build lasting relationships and feel at home on campus.

Your support also made academic success more attainable through veteran-focused tutoring. These services not only helped student veterans succeed in challenging courses but also created meaningful employment and leadership opportunities for veteran and military-connected students who served as tutors. It's a powerful example of veterans continuing to serve by helping fellow veterans reach their goals.

Because of You

Every mentoring conversation, tutoring session, and community event represents an investment in a veteran's future. Because of your generosity, student veterans at the University of Cincinnati are finding the support they need to persist, graduate, and build successful civilian careers.

The impact extends far beyond the classroom. Together, we're helping those who have served our country discover a renewed sense of purpose, connection, and opportunity through the 3rd & Goal Veteran Mentor Program.