Recently, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Military and Veteran Services hosted its first MAVRC Show-and-Tell event, bringing together SIUE and local community members to celebrate hobbies while fostering connections.

The event was inspired by the Metro East Vet Center, which originally hosted a Hobby Expo and Craft Chili Cookoff in November in honor of Veterans Day. Recognizing the value of community engagement, the Metro East Vet Center collaborated with SIUE’s Military and Veteran Services to expand the event to campus, supporting efforts to combat isolation and loneliness among veterans.
Last fall, when a student veteran brought awareness to the isolation they were experiencing since separating from the military, Telisha Reinhardt, assistant director of Military and Veteran Services and a Navy veteran, wanted to create events and programming that brought people together to establish relationships.

“Isolation and loneliness have been an issue in the United States for a while, but it’s different for service members,” said Reinhardt. “During our time in the military, we form close bonds with those we serve alongside—sometimes stronger than family ties. When someone leaves the military, they also leave behind those relationships they’ve come to depend on.”

Through the Military and Veteran Resource Center, SIUE’s MAVS team aims to create a space where student veterans can build new relationships, connect through shared service experiences, and find support as they navigate higher education.

“Collaborating with the Metro East Vet Center for MAVRC Show-and-Tell was the perfect opportunity to bring together veteran service organizations, SIUE, and local communities to share in something we all have in common,” Reinhardt shared. “We all have a hobby or passion that gives us a break from life’s stressors. Seeing those hobbies on display was fascinating.”

At the MAVRC Show-and-Tell, there was a variety of hobbies and collections on display. Tim Ogier (Metro East Vet Center) brought his 3D printer and showcased his prints, including a detailed pirate ship. Douglas Simms, PhD, professor of German in the Department of Foreign Languages and Literature, displayed his collection of windbag instruments from around the world and played a few songs. Telisha Reinhardt, an avid reader, displayed her favorite books and the books she looks forward to reading this summer. Robin Deguzman, a veteran and SIUE art major, brought his collection of Brompton bicycles, acquired while stationed in England, and demonstrated their unique features. The SIUE Police Department showed its support by bringing Chase and Max, the new therapy dogs, for pets and belly rubs.

In addition to the Metro East Vet Center’s presence, the Madison County Veterans’ Assistance Commission (VAC), Illinois Joining Forces (IJF), St. Louis VA Healthcare System (VA), and Sisters in Service Greater St. Louis (SiS) were in attendance to provide information about the resources they offer.

“Our relationship with local veteran service organizations is essential to serving our student veterans. Having their presence on campus keeps veterans informed of the benefits they have earned,” stated Reinhardt.

Along with networking and commemorative events, MAVRC Book Club, MAVRC Movie Night, and graduation celebrations, Military and Veteran Services will continue to make community-building programs a part of its mission, fostering opportunities for connection and helping break down isolation on campus.

PHOTO: Tim Ogier, Robin Deguzman, Douglas Simms