BATON ROUGE, La. — A comprehensive effort to assess the evolving needs of Louisiana’s military veterans and their families is launching in 2025, with the goal of strengthening statewide support systems for those who have served.
The initiative, led by the Louisiana Center for Health Innovation (LCHI) at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA), will gather input through a detailed needs assessment survey. This project aims to uncover gaps in essential services such as mental health care, housing, employment, and access to healthcare—issues that can significantly impact the well-being of veterans and their families.
“This is about listening to veterans and transforming data into action,” said Dr. Gabriela Wilson, Director of LCHI and principal investigator for the project. “Our goal is to design solutions that reflect the real needs of our veteran population, so no one feels unseen or unsupported.”
The survey is being developed using LCHI’s data-driven approach and research expertise in public health and health informatics, working in close collaboration with LDVA and various veteran-focused organizations.
LDVA Secretary Charlton Meginley praised the initiative as a pivotal step forward: “We support this research and are confident that the findings will help enhance the services we and our partners provide to veterans throughout the state.”
UL Lafayette Vice President for Research, Innovation and Economic Development Dr. Ramesh Kolluru emphasized the importance of honoring veterans through service-driven innovation. “We are proud to lead this initiative and deliver insights that can improve lives. This is how we show our deep gratitude to those who have served.”
The success of the survey—and its broader impact—will depend on robust participation from Louisiana’s veteran community. All veterans, service members, and their families are encouraged to take part in the 2025 survey to share their lived experiences and influence the future of veteran support across the state.
To learn more about the initiative or get involved, visit lchi.louisiana.edu.
For English-language inquiries, contact Dr. Gabriela Wilson at [email protected] or 337.482.0197.
For Spanish-language inquiries, contact Dr. Angie V. Sanchez at [email protected] or 337.482.0694.