Saint Joseph’s University has opened a new Office of Veterans Services to serve as a central place for student veterans to meet with trained staff for academic and specialized support. Along with meeting the needs of the University’s veteran population, the office will also offer an entrepreneurship boot camp for veterans with disabilities.
“This move is a clear indication of the priority and commitment Saint Joseph’s places on the men and women who have served our country,” says director Ralph Galati ’70 (USAF). “Veterans are a growing population with specific needs and we’re pleased to offer an office where they can access support and information.”
Galati, who spent 14 months as a POW in Vietnam, is acutely aware of the challenges veterans often face as they transition from service to citizenship.
“Our objective is to address the unique set of issues that face our veterans, their spouses and even their dependents,” said Galati. “We intend to serve as a hub of resources to ensure that every has a program established that addresses each of his/her specific requirements.”
Galati served in the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force at the Pentagon before going into the Air Force Reserves in 1978. He earned his master’s degree in public administration/human resource management from Golden Gate University in 1981.
Galati has taught business intelligence & analytics at a number of local universities and also worked as the veterans liaison for Delaware County, Pa., where he engaged in outreach efforts across the county.
SJU’s Office of Veterans Services helps veterans and their families by providing opportunities for education and career advancement, whether you’re a veteran, a vet’s spouse or dependant. The office also designs and implements customized education programs at the University and also ensure that veterans gain access to all eligible federal, state and local programs and services.