About Us

School Certifying Officials (SCOs)

School Certifying Officials (SCOs) are Seattle University staff members. They are the liaisons between Seattle University and the VA.  They make sure students are appropriately certified to receive their VA educational benefits.  The SCO’s receive regular training and updates from the VA and are advocates for their students.  If you have questions about your benefits or need assistance, please contact the SCO’s at va@seattleu.edu

Photo of Edith Larson

Edith Larson

Senior Assistant Director, Financial Aid Counselors

Photo of Leigh C. Miller

Leigh C. Miller

Certification Official & Lead Academic Specialist

Leigh Miller works in the Office of the Registrar and is one of the VA SCOs on campus working primarily with Student Veterans and Student Athletes. She grew up on the Olympic Peninsula and completed her BA in East Asian History at Seattle University. After living in Charlotte, NC and working in the non-profit sector for 6 years, she returned to Seattle. Leigh joined the SU staff in 2008 and has worked in a variety of roles at the institution, minus a 3-year period where she lived in Mexico City. She is passionate about the mission of SU and appreciates the opportunity to support students while they pursue their personal, academic and career goals.

Photo of Gabriella Santos

Gabriella Santos

Assistant Director, Athletic Student Aid & Veteran Benefits

Gabriella Santos works in Student Financial Services as a Financial Aid Counselor.  She is one of the VA SCO’s on campus and works primarily with Student Veterans and Student Athletes.  Growing up in the Seattle area, Gabby completed her undergraduate work at Washington State University, before working in the baseball industry.  Eventually finding her way back to Seattle; she began working at Seattle University in March 2006.  She received her Master in Sports Administration and Leadership from Seattle University.  She feels truly blessed to assist our students as they work toward their academic and career goals.