Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Chuck Xander is the University of Iowa's new embedded counselor to support veteran's and military-connected students. His position became a reality in 2022, when the Scanlan family donated $15 million to the UI College of Education, with specific intent to expand school mental health services and Veterans. Upon receiving this donation, the former Iowa Center for School Mental Health was re-named to the Scanlan Center for School Mental Health. 

The following is an excerpt from the University of Iowa article:

Patrick Scanlan, a Veteran himself, and his wife, Mary Bucksbaum Scanlan, say it was important to them to support the mental health needs of all Iowans, but especially Veterans, those serving in the military, and their families.

“We wanted to support Veterans and military families who often need additional support around mental health and well-being,” Patrick Scanlan says. “We could not think of a better way to support Veterans, and we are glad to see our gift making a difference in the lives of Veterans, active military members, and their families.”

UI College of Education Dean Daniel L. Clay says that Xander brings a great blend of empathy and expertise to the role of embedded counselor because of his own military service and educational background.

“We’re grateful to Mary and Patrick for their support in providing this critical mental health support for students who are active military, Veterans, and military-connected families on campus,” Clay says. “We’re fortunate to have Chuck’s expertise on our campus and community helping Veterans.”

Read the full article here.