The Spring 2025 semester is here! After a long, refreshing break, students have returned with renewed focus and energy. Many have shared how much they enjoyed spending quality time with family and friends. We hope this positive energy helps them power through the remaining weeks of winter. We are all eagerly anticipating the transformation of our campus into its vibrant spring colors.
As always, I'm here as a resource for all military-connected students, faculty and staff at James Madison University. My office is in the JMU VALOR Resource Center in The Union, Taylor Down Under, room 102 or you can email me at pangl2ml@jmu.edu.
Best regards,
Monica Pangle
JMU VALOR Coordinator
JMU VALOR is happy to introduce our new student employee Jonathan Carnell.
A message from Jonathan:
Hello! My name is Jonathan Carnell, and I am your new VALOR Student Assistant. I am a Staff Sergeant in the Army Reserve, and my military occupational specialty is Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Specialist. I am currently pursuing a dual bachelor's degree in Secondary Education and History so that I may once again serve the people of the valley. I live in Grottoes with my wife and two dogs.
I am more than happy to share my advice and experiences relating to VA disability claims, mental health resources and financial literacy (TSP, GI Bill, etc.) I am excited to serve our military-connected community and make a difference at JMU!
Come join the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) for a free lunch and discover all the services they have for registered members.
February 19 | 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. | The Union, Taylor 404
Lunch and Wounded Warrior merchandise will be available.
What does the Wounded Warrior Project do?
WWP serves any post 9/11 Service member who incurred injury, illness or wound (visible or invisible) while on active duty; or who has deployed to a combat zone. We also serve Family Support Members who can be any adult 18 years and older who supports the warrior; spouses, caregivers, children, friends, family members, significant others or neighbors. Each warrior is allowed up to three family support members. They all receive the same programs and services as the warrior. Everything is free to the warrior and family support members. WWP will brief in detail what these programs are at the event, but here is a general overview of what is offered.
WWP offers four pillars of support — connection, body, mental health and financial wellness — with several programs within each department.
Connection
- Alumni Program
- Resource Center
- Peer Support/Warrior Leaders
- Government and Community Relations
Body
- Physical Health and Wellness
- Soldier Ride
- Adaptive Sports
Mental Health
- WWP Talk
- Project Odyssey
- Warrior Care Network
Financial Wellness
- VA Benefits
- Warriors to Work
- Financial Education
Upcoming Events
Mark your calendars for some upcoming events.
Make sure you follow us @jmuvalor on Instagram for more information and updates on JMU VALOR's events!
February | Black History Month
- Wounded Warrior Project Meet and Greet
Feb. 19 | 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. | The Union, Taylor 404
Everyone is welcome!
- SVA Hangout
Feb. 28 | starting at 5:30 p.m. |Follow @jmusva on Instagram for the location.
Join SVA for a chance to develop community with other veteran students.
March | Women's History Month
- Barks of VALOR
March 10 | 11–11:30 a.m. | JMU VALOR Resource Center
- SVA Meeting
March 10 | 3–4 p.m. | JMU VALOR Board Room Table
- VA Works
March 11 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | JMU VALOR Resource Center
Kevin Coffman, with Virginia Career Works, will be here to assist veterans with employment related needs.
- VALOR Relax & Recharge Event
March 12 | 5:30–6:30 p.m. | JMU VALOR Resource Center
Join us as we offer activities to help you relax and recharge before mid-terms begin.
- Spring Break | March 17–21
- SVA Hangout
March 28 | starting at 5:30 p.m. | Follow @jmusva on Instagram for the location.
Join SVA for a chance to develop community with other veteran students.
May
- Graduation Celebration
May 13 | 5:30–7:30 p.m. | The Union, Taylor 405
This event lets us celebrate JMU VALOR graduates. This is also when we award you with a JMU VALOR or JMU Veteran cord.
Join the Student Veterans Association
Are you a veteran or currently serving in the military? Join the Student Veterans Association at JMU! We warmly welcome you to be part of our supportive and close-knit community. Connect with fellow veterans and currently serving students who understand your journey. Together, we can navigate college life and support each other every step of the way.
We host a variety of events and outings, and often gather at the JMU VALOR Resource Center for casual conversations and camaraderie. Don't go through college alone, become a part of SVA today!
About The JMU VALOR Resource Center
The JMU VALOR Resource Center is located in The Union, Taylor Down Under.
The JMU VALOR Resource Center is proud to host the Virginia Department of Veterans Services (VDVS). There will be a staffer in the Resource Center Monday to Thursday. On Monday and Tuesday, Virginia Veterans Family Support staffers will be represented and on Wednesday and Thursday a VDVS Benefits staffer will be in office. Appointments can be made through the Staunton VDVS Office (540-332-8900).
The Resource Center provides study space, a fridge with free snacks and drinks, an office for the JMU VALOR staff, couches, free printing and even a massage chair to relax. It is open 24 hours a day and all military connected students, faculty, and staff are welcome. Fill out and submit this form to request access.
STAFF SUPPORT
Dr. Bruce E. Mitchell II | Associate Vice President for Accessibility and Belonging | mitch3be@jmu.edu
Monica Pangle | Coordinator | JMU VALOR | pangl2ml@jmu.edu
Helpful Links