The role of Veterans Affairs leadership in supporting disability rated Veterans in the underutilization of education benefits

Abstract: This qualitative single case study explored the challenges faced by veterans with disability ratings in understanding and utilizing education benefits, emphasizing the role of the Department of Veterans Affairs leadership through the lens of servant leadership. The problem addressed was the lack of servant leadership in the VA, potentially leading to the underutilization of education benefits by disability-rated veterans. Key themes included inconsistent post-service outreach, reliance on peer support, and perceived inadequacies in leadership. The framework incorporated theories of servant leadership, social support, organizational behavior, and transition management, highlighting the importance of consistent communication, comprehensive support, and proactive post-service outreach. In-depth interviews revealed gaps in veterans' awareness and understanding of education benefits, underscoring the need for clearer communication and robust transition assistance. The purpose was to examine the lack of support from servant leadership in the VA, leading to the underutilization of education benefits by disability-rated veterans. The findings suggest that enhanced post-service outreach, better-aligned educational programs with career goals, and streamlined administrative processes are vital. Participants emphasized the importance of tailored support during their transition from military to civilian life, advocating for more proactive strategies by the VA. This study contributes to the existing literature by addressing the complexities of accessing education benefits for veterans with disability ratings and offers recommendations for improving support systems. By providing a deeper understanding of the barriers and facilitators to benefit utilization, this research highlights the need for strategic improvements in servant leadership practices to better serve veterans and enhance their post-military educational and career outcomes.