In “Forgotten Leaders,” Daniel Bolan, founder of the Student Veterans Foundation, presents a compelling case for why America's colleges and universities must do more to support their student veteran populations. Drawing from extensive research and personal interviews with veterans across the country, Bolan exposes the critical gaps in current veteran support systems and offers innovative solutions to help this underserved community thrive.

Each year, nearly one million veterans enroll in higher education, yet many struggle with isolation, inadequate resources, and bureaucratic hurdles that their civilian peers never encounter. Bolan reveals how these challenges contribute to lower graduation rates among veterans—representing not just personal setbacks but a profound waste of taxpayer investment in G.I. Bill benefits and military training.

At just nineteen years old when writing this book, Bolan brings a fresh perspective to veteran advocacy through his experience founding Strike for Vets and the Student Veterans Foundation. His vision combines practical support systems with opportunities for veterans to utilize their exceptional leadership skills on campus—transforming them from an isolated minority into valued campus leaders.

With powerful stories from veterans like Sheriff Payton Grinnell and businessman Michael Cullen, “Forgotten Leaders” makes an urgent call to transform how America supports those who have served when they return to the classroom.

If you enjoyed “Called to Serve: A Handbook on Student Veterans and Higher Education,” “After the War Zone,” and “Veterans in Higher Education: Research and Practice,” you'll love “Forgotten Leaders.”

Daniel Bolan

Books