Call for Peer Reviewers: FY 2026 Centers of Excellence for Veteran Student Success (CEVSS) Program

Purpose

The purpose of the Centers of Excellence for Veteran Student Success (CEVSS) Program is to encourage institutions of higher education (IHEs) to develop model programs that promote veteran student success in postsecondary education. These programs coordinate services that address the academic, financial, physical, and social needs of veteran students to improve enrollment, persistence, and completion outcomes.

Role of Peer Reviewers

Selected reviewers will:

• Independently read, score, and evaluate assigned applications.
• Provide detailed, objective, and constructive written comments.
• Participate in panel discussions to support funding recommendations.
• Understand that reviewer comments inform funding decisions.
• Prepare written comments that will be shared with applicants (with all identifying information removed).
• Comply with all requirements outlined in this Call for Peer Reviewers.

Experience and Expertise Needed

The Department seeks individuals with expertise and/or roles as outlined below:

• College and university faculty, staff, and administrators
• Educational strategists and evaluators
• Grant writers
• K–12 and postsecondary experience in: 
  • Supporting veteran student success in postsecondary education, including coordinating academic, financial, physical, and social services.
  • Implementing veteran‑focused programs at institutions of higher education (e.g., Veterans’ Resource Centers, military‑connected student support initiatives).
  • Navigating and advising students on military education benefits (e.g., GI Bill, Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment).
  • Designing or delivering support services for nontraditional or adult learners, including academic advising, tutoring, disability services, mental health supports, and case management.
  • Developing and evaluating evidence‑based postsecondary student success initiatives that improve retention, persistence, and completion—particularly for veteran populations.
  • Creating or supporting career pathway and workforce development programs aligned with veterans’ skills and goals that lead to industry‑recognized credentials or employment.

Requirements

Peer reviewers must:

• Commit approximately 60 hours over a 3‑week review period.
• Attend a required virtual training session (date/time TBD).
• Participate in 4–5 panel meetings scheduled in AM or PM blocks.
• Have reliable access to a computer, internet, and phone.

Honoraria will be provided to selected reviewers.

Conflicts of Interest

Individuals may not serve as reviewers if they:

• Participated in preparing an application.
• Are affiliated with an applying organization.
• Have a financial or professional interest in the competition’s outcome (including interests of family members, employees, or associates).

How to Apply

1. Submit a resume (Word/PDF, maximum 3 pages) to: Ashley.Hillary@ed.gov 
2. Use the subject line: FY 2026 CEVSS Peer Review
3. Register as a reviewer in GrantSolutions.gov
4. For questions, contact the FY 2026 CEVSS Competition Manager, Ashley Hillary at Ashley.Hillary@ed.gov  

Selection is competitive and not guaranteed.