Meet Jenn Hayes

Hometown: Spring Valley
Year: Junior
Major: Criminology and Sociology 
Minor: Communication Studies

Jenn Hayes has served in the Air National Guard since 2016. While on campus she is involved in the UW-River Falls Veterans Club.

“It is always nice to network with others and learn from their experiences and share your own,” said Jenn. 

She has been grateful for the help of Military Veteran Student Service Coordinator Peter Johnston who assists UWRF veterans with their benefits.

“Peter works really hard to make sure all of the student veterans get the maximum benefits,” Jenn said. “He is great with troubleshooting problems with the VA and listening to exactly what you have a problem with.” 

The close-knit community and small department size led Jenn to the UW-River Falls campus. After graduation, she wants to work with veterans in the civilian sector or make a career in the military. 

“Veteran suicide and mental health are close to my heart and working in that area would be more than rewarding to me,” added Jenn.