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The Office of Military Affairs (OMA) is dedicated to supporting our military-affiliated students—including veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, and family members—as they navigate their academic journeys and beyond. Established in March 2016, the OMA collaborates with academic and university departments and local community partners to provide tailored resources and services that address the unique needs of our military community.
When Wilmington College opened its doors in 1947, 75% of its students were World War II veterans. Today, more than 13% of UNCW students are veterans or military-connected. By supporting the OMA, you help a community of over 2,300 military students receive the resources and support they need to thrive at UNCW. We operate out of the nation’s only Veterans’ Hall to reside on a campus. This state-of-the-art facility features a spacious lounge with a full kitchen, a dedicated quiet study room, a training room, and a variety of other resources tailored to support military-affiliated students in achieving both their academic and personal success.
Your gift to Military Affairs directly impacts the lives of our military-affiliated students by funding:
- Scholarships for active-duty service members, veterans, and their families
- Programs and services that assist the transition from military service to higher education to meaningful careers
- Events and initiatives that strengthen the military-affiliated community at UNCW and beyond
Every gift, no matter the size, creates an ocean of opportunities that transforms the Seahawk experience.
Together, we can make a lasting impact on our military-affiliated students and the entire UNCW community.
"The Office of Military Affairs has been instrumental in helping me uncover some of the university’s lesser-known resources and connect with organizations on campus. One of the ways they do this is through their weekly Lunch & Learn series, where various resource centers are invited to share the services they offer to students. These sessions have been incredibly helpful in expanding my knowledge of the resources available to me. Additionally, we have a Camaraderie Corner to support mental health, and the Career Center comes to the office to provide support in reviewing and enhancing resumes, ensuring students are better prepared for the job market."
- Esteban Marin
"Transitioning from active duty Army to college life was a big adjustment, but the Office of Military Affairs made it a smooth and welcoming experience. Through their support, I’ve found a strong sense of community, built lasting friendships, and have had access to invaluable academic resources that have helped me succeed. Their dedication to student veterans has truly made my college journey rewarding, and I’m grateful for the connections and continual unwavering support they provide."
- Hayley Siemens
"The Office of Military Affairs is the hands down most important part of my time on campus. This small piece of a greater whole, is the one singular place where I and others can truly let down there gaurd and just be ourselves. It is a safe harbor in the on going storms in our lives, and I cannot thank the staff and the university enough for providing a space for people like me. Most vets like myself, really put on a good face, and a show throughout the day. We constantly have to check what we say, check how we act, and make sure we aren't disrupting the population of the school. Vets act, talk, breathe, and live different. Military Affairs is a place that is designed to let us do just that. When you walk through the doors you are in a safe place. A place where you are surrounded by supportive, like minded individuals, who lift each other up, and allow you to finally let down your gaurd, after keeping it up all of the time. People who haven't served have no idea how exhausting it is ever day for people like us. We have to act different, talk different, be different that our normal selves. MIlitary affairs lets us relax and share stories, advice, and issues with people just like us. I have been a part of a more supportive network of like mined inviduals. This group is a second family to most of us, and to be honest we need this just as much as we need our education."
-Bobby Messick
"Working at the OMA has significantly enriched my educational journey beyond the typical classroom. As a work study student, I have found a supportive and inclusive environment that has fostered both professional and personal growth. The office has provided me unique opportunities with a diverse group of individuals, including fellow students, veterans, and staff. For example, through daily interactions, I feel like I have built a strong network of friendships and professional connections that extend beyond my immediate academic circle. This sense of community has been incredibly impactful, especially since I am a college freshman. It is comforting to know I have a group of people that are truly there for me. I am so thankful to be a part of the Office of Military Affairs."
-Sarah Schempp
"The Office of Military Affairs at UNCW has been more than just a resource, it has been a bridge connecting me to opportunities I never imagined. Through their support, I've found a home in the Honors College, launched into research with FYRE, built relationships with mental health professionals in my field, and expanded my network through Team RWB and fellow veterans. They’ve not only helped me navigate scholarships and academic success but have also given me a sense of belonging and purpose beyond the military."
-Josh Webb
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