Veterans saluting American flag

Veterans Resource Center

The Veterans Resource Center (VRC) supports veterans, military-affiliated, and dependents as they transition back into civilian life and pursue their educational goals at College of the Desert.

Phone: (760) 773-2536
Email:
veterans@collegeofthedesert.edu

Location: Palm Desert Campus' Cravens Student Services Center (CSSC), Room 125. The VRC is on the 1st floor, on the east end of the building.

Please join us at our annual Veterans celebration! 

Flyer has a semi-transparent decorative background of an American flag. Text reads: Join us in Honoring Our Heroes! A Veternas Day Event. Monday, November 9, 2026 at 12:30 p.m. at the Palm Desert Campus Amphitheatre. Light refreshments will be served after the ceremony. Contact Evelyn Trejo or Donni Prince for more information at veterans@collegeofthedesert.edu or (760) 773-2536.

Join our upcoming Spring 2027 Orientation!

Flyer has a goldenrod and red background. Inlcudes a picture of COD mascot Rodney Roadrunner, and an image of a veterans day event with people in uniform. The flyer reads: You are invited to: Veterans Resource Center New Student Orientation. Welcome to College of the Desert! We are excited to have you join our community! Our Veteran and Military- Connected Student Orientation is designed to help you navigate your college experience, connect with fellow veterans, and access the resources and support you need to succeed. You will meet your Veterans Services team, understand what is required to submit and renew your benefits, and much more. Register today with the QRC code below. Post-Registration Opportunity Will be available right after orientation at the Veterans Resource Center (across from the Multi-Purpose Room in the Cravens Student Services Center). Get help with registration or class schedule questions. Tuesday, January 19, 2027 from 1pm-3pm at the Cravents Student Services Center Multi-Purpose Room at the Palm Desert campus. COD palm tree logo. COD slogan "Your Community. Your college". A scannable QR code is also included for students to scan and RSVP for orientation.

  • Mondays – Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. &
  • Fridays from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 
  • *Days and hours are subject to change.

In addition to the regular College of the Desert holiday closures, the VRC is also closed on the dates below: 

  • Monday, November 9, 2026 - VRC opening at 3:00 p.m. 
  • December 21-23, 2026
  • March 29-31, 2027
  • June 1-4, 2027

Veterans Resource Specialist Outreach at Indio Campus Lobby: 

  • Every 2nd Wednesday of the month beginning December 9, 2026. 

We are here to help with:

  • VA education benefits and certification
  • Academic counseling and educational planning
  • Priority registration guidance
  • Referrals to campus support services
  • Transitioning from military to student life
  • Disability support resources
  • Connections to local, state, and federal veteran organizations

College of the Desert is approved by the California State Approving Agency to enroll veterans and other eligible persons.

  • Appointments available: Monday through Thursday.
  • Appointment format: In-person, video, and phone.
  • Drop-in hours: Drop-ins do not require an appointment and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Wait times may vary depending on counselor availability. For current drop-in hours, please contact our office at 760-773-2536. 

To schedule an appointment, please call 760-773-2536 or email veterans@collegeofthedesert.edu. 

 
Contact Us

 

Jason Felix - Secretary, Veterans Resource Center
760.674.7845
jfelix@collegeofthedesert.edu  

 

Donni Prince - Veterans Resource Specialist, VA School Certifying Official
760.776.7444
dprince@collegeofthedesert.edu 

 

Evelyn Trejo - Veterans Counselor
760.862.1337
etrejo@collegeofthedesert.edu