Student Veterans Association

The mission of the SVA is to promote the academic success and empowerment of student veterans at the University of Illinois at Chicago through advocacy and supporting resources.  The SVA chapter at UIC plans events, such as outings to White Sox games and service projects to feed the homeless or clean up the surrounding community.

Portrait of Association President

About the President: 

My name is Natalie Risch and I am a current member of the Air Force National Guard. I did my undergrad at the University of Minnesota where I received Bachelors in political science and French. I am currently a UIC JD candidate for 2024.

I am a 711 at the Cook county States Attorneys office in special prosecution of sexual assault and domestic violence, I also teach sexual assault prevention to incoming sailors at Great Lakes naval base and volunteer with a foster child through CASA. I enjoy working with survivors and advocating for marginalized people.

I did not have an easy transition when I first came to UIC and I would like to help other students navigate the GI bill process, balance military commitments and school, and find a community of other veterans that they can relate to.

As the President of the Law School Student Veterans, I have helped streamline the process for incoming students and worked with faculty to address GI bill issues. I also facilitated the first in-person meeting of SVAs from neighboring law schools. I hope to continue to champion our vets and promote networking opportunities among Chicago area students and veteran attorneys.