Director of Veteran Affairs Matthew Casaubon does more than distribute educational military benefits - he creates community and connects with QCC's veteran population on an individual level.
It can be difficult to identify veteran students, especially when some might not consider themselves a veteran based on their length of service or never being deployed. But according to Casaubon, QCC's Veteran Affairs department welcomes all who served.
"I love helping people succeed and reach their goals," Casaubon shared.
Through events and activities, Veteran Affairs provides opportunities for QCC's military and military-affiliated students to engage with each other and with the larger QCC community. Casaubon noted that some veterans struggle with isolation, which can exacerbate mental challenges. Events like the monthly Coffee & Connections, which is open to all students, faculty, and staff, help veterans stay social and connected.
Veteran Affairs also connects students with valuable wrap-around services to ensure students' success. Using a case management approach, Casaubon assists hundreds of students who need assistance with everything from housing to resume building. An integral part of this process is the strong connection to local, state, and national veteran communities and nonprofits such as Clear Path for Veterans or Project New Hope.
Faculty and staff also reach out to Casaubon, some with their own military experience, and some wanting to support their family members with military experience. Casaubon has even helped with burial services for veterans and their families.
For Casaubon, providing these services isn't just a job - it's a calling.
"I was in their shoes once and I wish someone had been there for me. Maybe I wouldn't have ended up struggling like I did," shared Casaubon.
After serving in the military, Casaubon worked as a mechanic and distanced himself from the military community. It was many years later, after enduring personal and physical challenges, that he decided to pursue education again. Visiting his college's veterans center reignited his passion for helping people and put him on the path that eventually brought him to QCC, where he has supported the veteran community for the last three years.
If you are interested in hearing more of his story, the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center is holding a dinner and conversation event with Casaubon on Thursday, September 18 at part of the Jesse H. Stallings Memorial Speaker Series.
Department Info
Location: 258A
Number of Employees: 1
What is the mission of the department? The mission of the Veteran Affairs Department is to provide personalized support and connect military-affiliated students with the resources, benefits, and guidance needed to successfully transition from military service to college life and achieve academic and career success.
What is the best way for students, staff, and faculty to get in touch with the department? Anyone is welcome to stop by the Veteran Affairs office in 258A, as well as email veteranaffairs@qcc.mass.edu or call 508.854.2721.