MISSION
The Center of Excellence for Veteran Student Success (CEVSS) is dedicated to empowering military-connected students by fostering a supportive, inclusive, and resource-rich environment. We aim to support the transition from military to civilian life, community college to university, and student to professional through holistic advising, academic support, and career readiness programming.
VISION
To be a national model of veteran student success—where every military-connected student is equipped to thrive academically, emotionally, and professionally from enrollment through graduation and beyond.
PURPOSE
CEVSS exists to bridge equity gaps for military-connected students in the Inland Empire. Through personalized support and institutional collaboration, we reduce barriers to enrollment, retention, and degree completion while promoting financial literacy, career preparation, and a sense of belonging.
OBJECTIVES
- Improve veteran-focused programming, referral systems, and student satisfaction.
- Increase military-connected students’ enrollment in graduate and professional programs and career preparation engagement.
- Increase military-connected enrollment at CSUSB through outreach and application support.
- Improve 2nd year retention of military-connected students.
- Improve degree completion rates of military-connected students.
WHAT WE OFFER
- Holistic academic, career, and financial aid advising
- Veteran-focused workshops and wellness check-ins
- Assistance with FAFSA, GI Bill®, and other VA educational benefits
- Peer mentorship and tutoring support
- Cultural and professional development programming
- Dedicated space for military-connected students
MEET THE TEAM
Agustin Ramirez, M.A.
Program Director, United States Navy Veteran
Oversees both CEVSS and the CSUSB Veterans Success Center.
Vanessa Bustillos, M.A.
Program Coordinator/ School Certifying Official, United States Army Veteran
Provides holistic advising, academic and career support, and connects military-connected students with campus and community resources to ensure their success. Also serves as a VA School Certifying Official, assisting students with education benefits certification and compliance to support their academic success.
James Ruggles
Student Staff-Graphic Designer, United States Army Veteran
Offer personalized academic support, mentorship, and resource guidance to help military-connected students thrive both in and out of classroom. Also serves as a graphic designer, creating all visual materials and graphics used by the VSC and CEVSS.
Odalys Garcia
Student Staff, United States Army National Guard
Offer personalized academic support, mentorship, and resource guidance to help military-connected students thrive both in and out of classroom.
Anthony Noble
Student Staff-VA Work Study, United States Marine Corps Veteran
Offer personalized academic support, mentorship, and resource guidance to help military-connected students thrive both in and out of classroom.
Derek Redmon
Program Assistant, United States Air Force Veteran
Supports CEVSS operations, programs, outreach, and student services by helping connect military-connected students with resources, events, and campus support.
Keiko Kardos
Student Assistant- Palm Desert Campus
Offer personalized academic support, mentorship, and resource guidance to help military-connected students thrive both in and out of classroom.
Nathaniel Myrbostad Shishegar
Student Assistant, United States Air Force ROTC
Offer personalized academic support, mentorship, and resource guidance to help military-connected students thrive both in and out of classroom.