About Us

Veteran Business Outreach Center (VBOC) at Penn State Mission

The VBOC at Penn State empowers veterans, active duty service members, National Guard members, Reservists, and military spouses by providing expert guidance, comprehensive training, and access to a robust network of resources, fostering entrepreneurship and business success across Pennsylvania.

An Ecosystem of Support

The VBOC at Penn State serves as the gateway to a network of resource partners across Pennsylvania, including SBDCs, SCORE chapters, LaunchBox and Innovation Network, Women’s Business Centers, and more. These collaborations ensure service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses receive comprehensive support in training, funding, and business development, leveraging the expertise of multiple organizations to provide tailored assistance for entrepreneurs in Pennsylvania.

Leveraging Penn State Resources

Affiliation with Penn State enhances the VBOC’s mission by providing unparalleled access to the University’s extensive entrepreneurial resources and expertise. Penn State’s LaunchBox and Innovation Network, combined with its research capabilities and statewide connections, create a strong foundation for supporting veteran entrepreneurs. This partnership ensures veterans receive cutting-edge training, mentorship, and opportunities to succeed in Pennsylvania’s dynamic business environment.

Meet Our Director

Hazel Diaz, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Penn State alumna, is the director of the Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) at Penn State. She brings a wealth of experience, having managed veteran-focused programs like NPR’s Military Voices Initiative, where she cultivated partnerships and advocated for veterans. Hazel also served as an economic development analyst for the Commonwealth of PA, showcasing her dedication to community development. Passionate about empowering veterans, Hazel leads efforts to connect Pennsylvania’s veteran community with entrepreneurial resources and opportunities.

Meet Our Program Coordinator

Cindy Evans serves as the Program Coordinator and is located in the Eastern Region of the state. Cindy brings over a decade of experience in workforce development and a Master’s degree in Human Resources. As Director of Lehigh Valley LaunchBox, she has a proven track record of empowering individuals through strategic support and resource connections. Her passion for helping others grow—combined with strong interpersonal and organizational skills—makes her a valuable asset to the veteran and military-connected entrepreneur community.

Meet Our Program Coordinator

As Program Coordinator for the Western Region of the state and Director of The Corner LaunchBox in New Kensington, Joanna Sutton brings a strong background in community development and entrepreneurial support. She is dedicated to helping individuals turn their ideas into thriving businesses through personalized mentorship and inclusive programming. Her commitment to connecting with entrepreneurs where they are – paired with a passion for innovation – makes her a vital resource for veteran and military-connected business owners across western Pennsylvania.

Meet Our Community Engagement Specialist

Autumn Cowher is the Community Engagement Specialist for the VBOC at Penn State. She brings experience in administrative coordination, outreach, and event support, with a strong commitment to serving the veteran and military-connected community. Autumn is passionate about creating welcoming experiences, building meaningful connections, and ensuring entrepreneurs feel supported at every stage of their journey.

Grand Opening – November 2024

Questions on how to get started?

Contact Us

Veterans Crisis Line

Are you a veteran in crisis or concerned about one? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line.

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