TAMPA, FL -- University of South Florida became the first university in the nation to offer specialized services for veterans as part of the Post-9/11 Veterans Education Bill.
The new G.I. Bill covers tuition and fees, books and supplies and a housing stipend for those who served in the armed forces after the 9/11 attacks.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki and Governor Charlie Crist joined the effort alongside more than 250 college and university officials throughout the state of Florida to plan strategies in serving veterans returning from war who seek their undergraduate and advanced degrees.
"We are only beginning to appreciate the challenges of reintegration for our nations veterans and it is only through cooperation, collaboration and the sharing of best practices that we as institutions can be sure we are meeting our obligation to them," said USF President Judy Genshaft.
The Post-9/11 G.I. Bill was signed into law in July, 2008.
