Shoreline Community College has been awarded a $697,300 grant through the Supporting Student Veterans and Their Families initiative, funded by the King County Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy. In partnership with the nonprofit Operation Military Family, Shoreline will launch the Veteran Success Through Education program, a two-year pilot effort to provide holistic support for veterans and their families, particularly those from marginalized communities. 

The grant, which spans from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027, will support culturally responsive case management, academic and financial assistance, and comprehensive wraparound services for eligible students. 

“This is an opportunity to serve veterans who may be navigating the complexities of higher education without access to, or who have exceeded traditional VA benefits,” said Derek Levy, Dean of Student Support & Success at Shoreline. “We’re excited to expand the services and supports we can offer to our veteran student community, both current and prospective, providing access and wraparound support in collaboration with Operation Military Family through the support of the King County Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy.” 

The Veteran Success Through Education program will focus on serving veterans from underrepresented communities, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, formerly incarcerated veterans, and those who have exhausted or are not eligible for VA benefits. Operation Military Family will provide individualized case management, both remotely and on campus, and help connect Shoreline with veterans in need through an established network across the region. 

Funding from the grant will enable Shoreline to assist with tuition, incidental expenses, and housing assistance for eligible students based on need. Participants will also have full access to Shoreline’s robust student support services, including dedicated Veterans services and academic advising. 

“Through the Veteran Success Through Education program, we are honored to support those who have served our country, especially veterans from historically underserved communities, by providing the resources, guidance, and community they need to thrive in their academic and personal journeys,” said Ryan Aiello, Shoreline’s Vice President of Student Affairs. 

The grant builds on Shoreline’s growing efforts to provide inclusive, equitable access to education and serves as a bridge for those who may be seeking a new path after military service. 

Joshua Salois, Program Specialist II who works primarily with Shoreline’s Veterans population, had this to say about the grant.  “I’m excited for us to have the opportunity to support even more student Veterans and family members; especially folks coming from marginalized and often vulnerable populations. Even something seemingly small, like getting a professional certificate, can be so empowering and transformative, so for our program to have more ability to give that chance to those who may not have otherwise had it is just really amazing.”  

As a pilot program, Veteran Success Through Education will run through June 2027 with the potential to inform and expand future support for veteran students across King County.