A U.S. Army veteran has been tapped as The University of Toledo’s new director of military and veteran affairs.
Eric Buetikofer started his new post May 20.
“I have been working with military-connected students in higher education for more than 10 years. My background is in programing, supplemental advising, and recruiting military-connected students,” he said. “I am excited to bring my skills to UToledo and hopefully enhance military services at the University.”
Buetikofer
Buetikofer served as military advisor for nine years at Bowling Green State University, where he implemented several national programs for military-connected students, and was a success mentor/advisor for one year at Owens Community College.
At UToledo, Buetikofer is charged with strategically planning and leading the effort to assist military and veteran students achieve success in the classroom and beyond. Duties also include developing programs and building relationships that continue to promote the University as a military-friendly institution, as well as overseeing the Military Service Center.
“We are happy to have Eric Buetikofer as our director of military and veteran affairs. He is a veteran who has worked in higher education to help military members realize their dreams,” Dr. Barbara Kopp Miller, dean of University College, said. “We are proud The University of Toledo is recognized as a military-friendly institution, and we know Eric will build on that tradition.”
For two years, Buetikofer worked in military intelligence in the U.S. Army. He provided ground surveillance and conducted training sessions while completing a tour of duty in South Korea and temporary duty in Japan.
“When I returned from active duty in the early 2000s, there was very little support for military-connected students in higher education,” Buetikofer said. “As a first-generation college student, like many military veterans, I did not have a lot of guidance on how to navigate higher education. As the new director of military and veteran affairs, I can ensure that today’s military-connected students are fully supported as they pursue education at The University of Toledo.”
A native of Erie, Pa., Buetikofer received a bachelor of arts degree in education from Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pa., and a master of arts degree in education from Bowling Green State University in 2007 and 2009, respectively.
