AUGUSTA -- When a new GI Bill goes into effect in August 2009, the University of Maine at Augusta wants to be in a position to enroll veterans returning from combat.

"It really just makes a whole lot of sense," said Jon Henry, UMA's Dean of Enrollment Services. "This is a great way to do it, and it comes with federal money."

Hosting more than a dozen people who provide services to veterans Wednesday morning, UMA officials touted the college as one where veterans would feel welcome after their return from combat.

UMA admissions counselors showed the guests around the UMA campus on tours. The college's academic deans described the programs in which veterans could enroll and the degrees they could earn.

"We're calling out to veterans," Henry said.