Christopher Soriano joined Sac State’s College of Continuing Education [CCE] in the summer of 2025 to support military-affiliated students. In two months as a Veterans Student Support & Compliance Specialist, he has seen how much the CCE community cares about its students. 

And as a veteran himself, he understands the unique challenges veterans face. 

“My goal is to make their academic journey as smooth and rewarding as possible. I’m honored to be part of a team that shares that commitment and look forward to what we’ll accomplish together,” Chris says.

As the Veterans Student Support & Compliance Specialist, Chris supports military-affiliated students by helping them understand how and when to use their VA educational benefits. He also processes certifications, monitors academic progress, and keeps students informed about important deadlines. Behind the scenes, he collaborates with departments to ensure compliance and improve the overall student experience.

“I see my role as both a guide and an advocate,” Chris says. “Many of our students are navigating complex transitions, and having someone who understands both the regulations and their unique needs can make a huge difference. By helping them stay compliant and connected, I remove barriers and allow them to focus on reaching their academic and career goals.”

Chris experienced those complex transitions himself. After serving in the California Army National Guard, he earned a bachelor’s degree in communications with a focus on public relations and advertising. Facing those very same challenges opened his eyes to a great need – helping his fellow veterans understand and maximize their education benefits. 

“That experience inspired me to shift directions and focus on supporting service members, veterans, and their families through their academic journeys,” Chris says. “As someone who has personally used VA benefits at a CSU, I understand the process and the frustrations that can come with it. Now, in my role as a Veterans Student Support & Compliance Specialist, my top priority is being a reliable point of contact and advocate for those students.”

Growing up, he never imagined himself joining the military; however, in 2010, he came across an ad for the California Army National Guard that appealed to him. 

“That structure appealed to me, especially at a time when I needed more focus, discipline, and purpose in my life. I contacted a recruiter and told him I didn’t need to be convinced. I was ready to go. A few months later, I was at Basic Training in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Later, I went on to serve in Operation Enduring Freedom from 2013 to 2014, which was a defining experience both personally and professionally. That deployment gave me a stronger sense of responsibility, leadership, and resilience,” Chris says.

Chris shared a list of frequently asked questions he has received in his brief time with CCE. Here, he answers those questions: 

Q: Is the Cal Vet Fee Waiver eligible to use at CSU Sacramento- CCE? 

A: The short answer is no. Since continuing education is self-supported and not state-funded, the Cal Vet Fee Waiver is not eligible to be used at CCE. 

Q. Can I use my VA education benefits at CCE while using them at CSU Sacramento’s main campus during the same term?

A. Unfortunately, no. While we are still part of CSU Sacramento, when we report VA enrollment, CCE and the main campus have separate facility codes. A veteran can only be under one facility code at a time to avoid being double-paid. 

Q. How can I let your office know that I want my courses sent to the VA?

A. Our office needs two main documents to become aware that you are using VA Education Benefits. We need a Certificate of Eligibility to show your VA Education Benefits and every term a student is enrolled, we need an updated Veterans Enrollment Certificate (VEC), which tells us what classes you would like to be certified with the VA. The VEC also allows me to check your courses and confirm they are part of your degree program. Only courses part of your degree program can be certified and paid for by the VA. 

Q. Where can I learn more about my VA Education Benefits? Who can I talk to? 

A. While I represent CSU Sacramento – CCE and students, I do not work for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Therefore, I cannot give specific information about VA Education Benefits eligibility or decisions. The best way to find more information regarding VA Education Benefits are:

• Calling the VA Education Line: (888) 442-4551
• Online: https://www.va.gov/education/
• Asking a question through Ask VA: https://www.va.gov/contact-us/ask-va/introduction

Chris has a dedicated veteran student phone line at CCE, along with a way for students to create appointments to meet with him in-person, virtually, or on the phone to advise on academics, benefit eligibility, and campus resources, and to ensure their courses meet VA and university regulations. 

Veterans can book an appointment via this link. Chris can also be reached via phone at 916-278-0700. 

“It’s rewarding to know that I’m contributing to success and helping veterans get the most out of the benefits they’ve earned,” Chris said.