SPARTANBURG, SC (SCDVA)- The University of South Carolina-Upstate is the latest educational institution to join the South Carolina Veteran Coalition. USC Upstate has dedicated years to serving and supporting military students, Veterans, and their families. USC Upstate provides a wide range of resources and services tailored specifically for Veterans to foster an environment that is Veteran-friendly. Connecting with the South Carolina Veteran Coalition provides military and Veteran students at the university additional resources to assist them with their academic development and beyond.

"I'm so pleased to welcome the University of South Carolina Upstate into the South Carolina Veteran Coalition. Chancellor Bennie Harris and his team have a great commitment to Veterans and military students," said SCDVA Secretary Todd B. McCaffrey.

“This partnership aligns with our university’s commitment to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and community collaboration. We are honored to play a pivotal role in the realization of a platform that will undoubtedly enhance the lives of our South Carolina Veterans," said USC Upstate Chancellor Bennie L. Harris.

 “The SC Veteran Coalition powered by Combined Arms will not only streamline the process of connecting clients with vital services but also ensure accountability and transparency across all levels of engagement,” said Donette Stewart, Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Services and Director of Admissions at USC Upstate. “Through this innovative partnership, Veterans and their families will receive the support they deserve, creating a stronger and more interconnected Veteran community.”

For more information on support for Veterans, service members, and their families from USC Upstate click here.

About the South Carolina Veteran Coalition

The South Carolina Veteran Coalition (powered by Combined Arms) is comprised of SCDVA leaders, nonprofits, Veteran Service Organizations and County Veterans Affairs' Officers joining together to help improve care, connect Veterans, Veteran Spouses, and their family members to resources in the state of South Carolina.

According to the 2022 Economic Impact of South Carolina’s Military Community report commissioned by SCDVA, the Upstate has a population of more than 94,000 Veterans, and an annual economic impact of approximately 3-billion dollars.

While the economic outlook to the community is strong, our transitioning Veterans struggle. According to Pew Research, about half of post- 9/11 Veterans reported the transition to civilian life was difficult and they struggled to pay their bills. Lack of affordable housing, underemployment, emergency financial assistance, food insecurity and family issues are amongst the issues that the Coalition is addressing.