For years, hundreds of Minnesota Veterans have known how dedicated, knowledgeable and helpful Jason Wehry is. Now, the MDVA Education Coordinator is getting the recognition he deserves – after St. Cloud State University presented him with their “Prestigious Partner Award.”

For Veterans pursuing higher education in central Minnesota, one familiar face has become a trusted guide through the complicated world of education benefits. Meet Jason Wehry, Central Regional Coordinator, Veterans Education, at the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA).

In April, Kristin Hughes, Director, Veterans Resource Center at St. Cloud State University (SCSU), informed Jason that his dedication was being recognized with the 2026 SCSU External Partner Award. “He takes the time to walk students through eligibility, certification, enrollment changes and other VA requirements, making a complicated process easier to understand. Because of his support, students can focus more fully on their education and their life outside the classroom.”

Since joining MDVA in 2020, Jason has helped hundreds of student Veterans, service members and military families navigate state and federal education programs while connecting them to additional community resources. His work involves helping Veterans determine eligibility for benefits, understand U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) policies and maximize available educational opportunities.

“A lot of times they come in and they have no idea what benefits they’re eligible for,” Jason explained. Jason serves students across several campuses, including SCSU, St. Cloud Technical & Community College, Central Lakes College, the College of Saint Benedit and Saint John’s University. “I want to make sure they’re getting everything possible and utilizing it in a smart way.”

Jason’s support often extends beyond education. Through partnerships with local Veteran organizations and campus resource centers, he regularly helps students with housing assistance, financial support, disability resources and other services.

One example involved a Veteran student who had purchased a home but lacked basic furnishings. Working with local community organizations, Jason helped coordinate resources to fully furnish the home. Another student discovered she qualified for education benefits through her father’s military service — benefits that ultimately replaced the student loans she had expected to rely on.

While Jason is humble about receiving recognition, campus leaders say his impact is clear. In the nomination, SCSU staff highlighted his “clear communication” and “reliability,” noting that many students credit his guidance for helping them successfully access their VA education benefits. “What makes Jason stand out is that he truly understands the challenges Veteran students face and genuinely cares about helping them,” says Kristin.

A Veteran himself with approximately 14 years of military service, Jason says the work is deeply personal. “I get to wake up every day and help students,” he said. “My best days are the ones where it’s nonstop busy because I’m helping so many people.”

For Veterans and military family members seeking education support, Jason encourages them to connect with their regional Veterans education coordinator through the LinkVet network, where staff can help identify benefits, explain eligibility and guide students through the process step by step.