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U456·SUNDAY WORKSHOP:From Stories to Strategies: Scenario-Based Insights for Educators Working with Student Veterans
Workshop Military and Veterans Division (MVD)
Sun. June 21, 2026 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
E-220D, Charlotte Convention Center
Session Description

Free ticketed event
This interactive session introduces participants to scenario-based vignettes that illustrate key transition points and learning experiences of Student Veterans entering STEM pathways. Through brief live-action readings, attendees will explore how different instructional or advising responses shape student engagement and success. Facilitated reflection moments invite participants to connect these scenarios with their own teaching, mentoring, or program design practices. By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with practical strategies for supporting diverse Student Veteran journeys in STEM learning environments.

Planned Schedule of Workshop
1. Welcome, Framing, and Objectives — 10 minutes
Sets expectations, introduces the purpose of vignette-based learning, and establishes a low-threat, curiosity-driven tone.

2. Research Snapshot: Who Are Today’s Student Veterans? — 10 minutes
A brief evidence-based overview to orient participants and gently pre-empt common misconceptions.

3. Vignette 1: Live Reading + Small-Group Reflection — 25 minutes
THEME 1: Academic and Social Integration
Live reading: 5 minutes; * Guided reflection prompts in small groups: 12 minutes; Large-group insights share-out: 8 minutes

4. Vignette 2: Live Reading + Applied Discussion — 25 minutes
THEME 2: Peer Social Interaction
Live reading: 5 minutes; Paired analysis (instructional/response choices): 10 minutes; Whole-room synthesis: 10 minutes

5. Break — 10 minutes ------------------------------------------------------

6. Vignette 3: Live Reading + Practice-Oriented Application — 25 minutes
THEME 3: Academic Advising
Live reading: 5 minutes; Triad discussion on contextual decision-making: 12 minutes; Report-out emphasizing practical strategies: 8 minutes

7. Science-Based Outbrief: Evidence to Anchor Takeaways — 20 minutes
A structured mini-lecture reviewing national research on educational performance, health trends, persistence patterns, and outcomes for Student Veterans—used explicitly to neutralize residual assumptions while reinforcing strengths.

8. Closing Integration + Q&A — 15 minutes
Participants synthesize insights, articulate one practical change they will implement, and ask final questions.

Speakers
  1. Dr. Angela Minichiello P.E.
    Utah State University

    TBA

  2. Dr. David M. Feinauer P.E.
    Virginia Military Institute

    TBA

  3. Mr. Jerry Lynn Dahlberg Jr
    University of Tennessee, Space Institute

    TBA

  4. Dr. Robert J. Rabb P.E.
    The Pennsylvania State University

    TBA

  5. Dr. Alyson Grace Eggleston
    The Pennsylvania State University

    TBA