Morris County has taken an important step in strengthening its support for veterans, particularly those pursuing higher education, by bringing veteran services directly to the campus of the County College of Morris (CCM). Beginning this month, a Veterans Services Office (VSO) will be available at the CCM Veterans Resource Center two days each month, offering student veterans easier access to essential benefits and guidance.
This initiative, set to take place on the first and third Thursday of each month, allows veterans enrolled at CCM to connect with a Veterans Services Officer from Morris County. The officer will be available on-site at the Veterans Resource Center from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. during the academic semesters, providing direct assistance with VA benefits, claims, counseling, and other services, excluding county holidays.
This collaboration is an important part of an ongoing effort by both the county and the college to ensure that veterans and their families receive the help they need as they transition from military service to civilian careers and education.
Providing Vital Support for Veterans
The partnership between the Morris County Veterans Services Office and County College of Morris is a natural evolution of the county’s efforts to expand support for veterans. Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo emphasizes the importance of the collaboration: “This partnership ensures that our student veterans have the support they need while pursuing their education and future careers.”
For veterans, navigating the maze of available resources can often be overwhelming. With this on-site service, veterans now have a dedicated space to meet with a Veterans Services Officer who can guide them through the process, whether it’s filing claims, applying for benefits, or connecting with additional support networks.
Jessica Tomalo, the Morris County Veterans Services Officer Program Coordinator, added, “I am honored to meet with these veterans, hear their stories, and help them navigate the many services available to them at county, state, and federal levels.”
A Resource Hub for Veterans
The CCM Veterans Resource Center, located in Sheffield Hall, opened its doors in 2024 to provide veterans and their families with a space to access education benefits, career advising, and counseling. Designed with extensive input from the local veteran community, the center serves as a one-stop hub where student veterans can connect with various county, state, and federal resources.
Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of CCM, emphasized the college’s commitment to honoring and supporting veterans: “CCM is deeply honored to serve our active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families in recognition of their extraordinary service and sacrifice to our nation. The Veterans Resource Center reflects our ongoing commitment to celebrate their contributions and provide meaningful support.”
The center also facilitates networking, helping veterans build connections with peers, faculty, and local organizations. This collaboration ensures that the transition from military service to academic life is as seamless and supportive as possible.
Connecting Student Veterans to Broader Networks
Shenandoah Ellis-Ulmer, the coordinator of veteran and military services at CCM, highlighted the importance of the new partnership: “The presence of a county Veterans Services Officer in our center provides a critical link between the campus and the broader network of resources available to our students.”
This new service complements other initiatives that have been rolled out to strengthen veterans’ access to vital services. In 2024, the county, with support from U.S. Reps. Tom Kean, Jr. and Mikie Sherrill, partnered with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to open a federal Veterans Center Community Access Point (CAP) at the Morris County Veterans Services Office located in Morris Township. This partnership allows veterans to receive federal-level assistance, which is essential as they navigate various programs and benefits.
Veterans looking to make appointments with the Bloomfield Vet Center can reach out directly at 973-748-0980.
Expanding Services and Community Outreach
Beyond individual consultations at the CCM campus, the Morris County Veterans Services Office continues to host community outreach events. Their quarterly “Spotlight on Services” sessions, held in local communities such as Montville, Morris Plains, and Butler, bring essential information directly to veterans. These sessions provide an opportunity for veterans to ask questions, learn about new services, and connect with local resources.
The Morris County Veterans Services Office remains a central hub for veterans seeking assistance with everything from VA claims to mental health support, job training, and transportation assistance. Veterans can visit the office at 540 West Hanover Ave., Morris Township, or reach out by calling 973-285-6866. Walk-in hours are available from Monday to Thursday, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Those seeking more specific guidance can email the office at MCVets@co.morris.nj.us.
More Than Just Resources—A Community of Support
The expanded partnership between Morris County and CCM represents a significant step forward in addressing the unique needs of veterans. By having a dedicated Veterans Services Officer on-site, the program strengthens the county’s ability to support student veterans both academically and personally. This collaboration makes it easier for veterans to navigate the often-complex landscape of benefits and services, empowering them to succeed in their academic journeys and future careers.
As New Jersey continues to improve its veteran services, this initiative at CCM is a model for how local communities and educational institutions can work together to make a real difference in the lives of those who have served.
To learn more about the ongoing initiatives to support veterans in Morris County and beyond, visit the Explore North Jersey section for more updates on resources and services.
