Intro by King Musa
“Yo, what it is? You know what it is. It’s your man, King Musa! Welcome to The Cheat Sheet, the podcast where we decode success for creators, professors, and business owners.
Today, we’re spotlighting a critical topic: supporting veterans in higher education. Joining us is Ms. Stesha Colby Lynch, Director of Veteran Services at Stephen F. Austin State University. Stesha is a Marine veteran and passionate advocate for military-connected students, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive. We’re excited to hear about her journey, her work, and her vision for veteran services at SFA. Welcome, Ms. Lynch!”
Getting to Know Ms. Stesha Colby Lynch
King Musa: “Welcome, Stesha! Could you introduce yourself and share what you do here at SFA?”
Stesha Colby Lynch: “Thanks for having me! I’m Stesha Colby Lynch, Director of Veteran Services at SFA. I oversee the Veterans Resource Center, which is like a USO for our students. It’s a space where military-connected students can study, hang out, and access free school supplies, coffee, and snacks. I also ensure their benefits, like tuition and fees, are handled correctly and help them understand what additional resources are available to them.”
Personal Background and Passions
KM: “Where are you from, and how did your background lead you to this role?”
SCL: “I’m a military brat, so I’ve lived all over, but I usually say I’m from Memphis since I went to high school there. Right out of high school, I went to college but majored in partying. That didn’t work out, so I joined the Marine Corps. In the Marines, I learned discipline and found my passion for higher education while working in a veterans’ office after leaving active duty. My parents weren’t college-educated, so I was the first in my family to graduate. That experience shaped my understanding of what it’s like to be a first-generation student.”
KM: “What do you enjoy outside of your work with veterans?”
SCL: “I’m currently a graduate student in creative writing, which I love. I also authored a book this year. When I’m not writing or studying, I’m spending time with my husband and our four dogs—two pit bulls, a service dog named Annie, and our retired service dog, Hercules.”
Leadership and Vision
KM: “What is your vision for veteran services at SFA?”
SCL: “If I had an unlimited budget, I’d create a larger space for our students, with separate areas for studying, socializing, and offices for staff. Right now, our space in the student center is convenient but can get noisy, especially with Chick-fil-A nearby. My dream is to make it a one-stop shop where students can access all their benefits and resources in one place.”
KM: “What challenges do you face as Director of Veteran Services?”
SCL: “I wouldn’t say challenges as much as opportunities. SFA is very supportive of my ideas and programs. While funding can be tight, I work to maximize our budget through thrifty planning. The biggest ongoing challenge is creating the best environment for students while managing space and resources.”
Supporting Veterans and Military-Connected Students
KM: “Who is eligible for veteran services, and what resources are available?”
SCL: “Our services aren’t just for veterans—they’re for anyone connected to the military. That includes spouses, children, ROTC cadets, active-duty service members, reservists, and guardsmen. You don’t have to be using benefits to access our space or resources. We’re here to provide a welcoming environment and help military-connected students thrive academically and personally.”
KM: “What advice do you have for students, especially veterans, pursuing their degrees?”
SCL: “Keep going. The last semester or two can be tough, but it’s worth it. I’ve been in situations where I struggled financially and thought about dropping out, but pushing through is the key. Don’t quit before you cross the finish line.”
Exciting Programs and Initiatives
KM: “What programs and events can students look forward to this semester?”
SCL: “One of our most popular events is the Thanksgiving canoe trip with Outdoor Pursuits. It’s a great way for students to decompress, build teamwork, and share stories around the campfire. I also plan programs to create spaces where veterans feel comfortable opening up about their experiences, whether they’re hilarious or difficult. It’s all about connection and support.”
Outro by King Musa
“Ms. Lynch, thank you for sharing your journey and the incredible work being done at SFA’s Veteran Services. It’s inspiring to see the difference you’re making for veterans and their families.
To our listeners, remember that success is about building community and providing support. Whether you’re a veteran or a student looking to get involved, there are resources and opportunities available.
This is your man, King Musa, signing off. Stay motivated, stay connected, and support the veterans in your life. Peace!”
0 Comments