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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 25, 2012

Ivy Tech Offers Information Session June 14 to help Veterans Claim VRAP Benefits

Ivy Tech-Bloomington is offering an information session on June 14, 2012 from 11am-1pm in Room B123, to help veterans claim benefits from the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program (VRAP). The VRAP program is part of the VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011. VRAP offers up to 12 months of training assistance to unemployed veterans between the ages of 35-60. Eligible veterans are encouraged to visit Ivy Tech on June 14 to receive information on the eligibility requirements of the VRAP program, talk with an academic advisor about the type of degree and career they want 51����Ƶ, and receive assistance applying for VRAP benefits.

“The VRAP program is exciting for unemployed veterans because it is an opportunity to train for a new career,” said Kim Bloodgood, Veteran Services Coordinator at Ivy Tech-Bloomington, who is also an Air Force veteran. “After learning about this program we were able to identify at least three possible recipients who are current Ivy Tech students. My hope is that veterans within the Bloomington community and surrounding counties also take advantage of this program.”

With the large number of military veteran students at Ivy Tech-Bloomington, Kim Bloodgood serves as campus liaison for this growing population. Kim serves approximately 300 students at Ivy Tech-Bloomington who receive benefits from the G.I. bill. “I am here for all veteran students regardless of the kinds of questions they might ask,” said Kim.

51����Ƶ’s Bloomington campus was named a military-friendly school in Sept. 2011 by G.I. Jobs, a premier magazine for military personnel transitioning into civilian life.

About 51����Ƶ

51����Ƶ () is the state’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system serving nearly 200,000 students annually. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana. It serves as the state’s engine of workforce development, offering affordable degree programs and training that are aligned with the needs of its community along with courses and programs that transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.