Veterans Alliance
University staff, faculty who are active military or veterans of the armed forces, and their employee allies are supported from within this Alliance.
Mission Statement
The Veterans Alliance Employee Resource Group at the University of Rochester is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and engaging environment for military veterans and active service members employed as faculty and staff at the University, and their allies. It is our mission to foster esprit de corps and create a healthy space for personal and professional development and networking while upholding the values of equity and inclusion in alignment with the University’s broader mission.
General Membership
Membership in the Veterans Alliance is open to all faculty and staff employees of the University of Rochester who are interested in supporting veterans and active military members within the campus community. Events and programming are focused on current staff and faculty who are serving or have served in the armed forces of any nation. No prospective member shall be refused membership based on their sex, gender, religion, age, race, or creed. All members will have the opportunity to hold office, serve on committees, receive resource materials, and attend events.
While the Veterans Alliance centers the experiences and perspectives of active-duty service members and veterans, we warmly welcome and encourage participation from colleagues of all backgrounds, including those who do not identify as part of the military community. Your presence, support, and engagement foster a richer dialogue and help build a more inclusive and understanding environment. By showing a commitment to learning and mutual respect, you contribute to making our University stronger and ever better.
Strategic Intent
- Contribute to providing a welcoming environment for service members and foster a deeper understanding of the unique experiences and perspectives of employees who have served in the armed forces.
- Offer support and be a resource, enabling the employee’s path to thrive and success in our university community.
- To support professional development opportunities for employees.
Objectives
- Fostering esprit de corps and engagement within the university community with the promotion of veteran interest through educational, social, and recreational events and activities.
- Build a supportive community that recognizes and celebrates the contributions of veteran employees.
- Collaborate with other employee resource groups at the University of Rochester to create a more inclusive and welcoming campus environment for all.
Board Members and Executive Champion
Chair
- Emily Schottmiller
- Executive Board
- CAPT Russel Sanchez
- CDR Andrew D’Ambrosio
- Christina Schmidt
- Kelsey Michener
- Danielle Andolia
veteransalliance@rochester.edu
Resources