PITTSBURGH, July 31, 2024—Leaving the military to pursue a college or vocational degree can be daunting for many service members. The presence of dedicated advocates at schools and programs can significantly ease this transition, providing essential support and guidance.
Military Friendly® is proud to honor 31 outstanding individuals with the 2024 Veteran Champions of the Year in Higher Education award. This prestigious recognition celebrates those who go above and beyond in advocating for the advancement and success of student veterans in higher education.
“Supporting our nation’s veterans as they navigate their educational journeys is often a labor of love that goes unrecognized. Military Friendly® is delighted to shine a spotlight on these selfless professionals,” said Dan Fazio, awards program manager.
The 2024 Veteran Champions of the Year in Higher Education will be featured in the October issue of G.I. Jobs, available in both print and digital formats. These champions have been selected for their unwavering dedication to creating and nurturing sustainable services and programs that support veterans’ success in higher education. They frequently serve as mentors and work tirelessly to address the unique needs of student veterans.
It’s important to note that honorees do not have to be veterans themselves to be nominated.
This year’s champions are:
- Morgan Gamble, Purdue University
- Rod Key, Middle Tennessee State University
- India Sadhoo, Independence Community College
- Aidyn Peace, Elon University
- Samantha Klingler, Western Illinois University
- Angela Do, Oklahoma City University
- Ali Reza Rajabzadeh, Troy University
- Leigh Britton, University of Georgia Terry College of Business
- Bridget Scrogham, ACI Learning Tech Academy
- Luis Martinez, Texas Veteran Leadership Program
- Philip Young, Casper College
- Melissa Michaud, Connecticut State Community College-Middlesex
- Paul Esposito, Auburn University
- John Ryder, Rowan College South Jersey
- Emily Anthony, Southeastern Louisiana University
- Jeff Deickman, University of Colorado Colorado Springs
- Robbie Gregg, Veterans Upward Bound at Pensacola State College
- Giancarlo Aponte, Florida National University
- Janet Brinkley, Fayetteville State University
- Courtney Dandridge, Oral Roberts University
- Leonard Pounds, Nova Southeastern University
- Tami Thacker, University of California, Riverside
- Jasmine Coleman, University of North Carolina at Pembroke
- Sydney Matthes, Service to School
- Jennifer Figueroa, Oral Roberts University
- Joshua Burns, Georgian Court University
- Angie Estes, Central Carolina Community College
- Michael Payne, Chattahoochee Technical College
- Vernon Hurte, Towson University
- Kimberly Poole, Clemson University
- Eda Wu, Shenandoah University
Military Friendly® remains committed to recognizing and supporting those who champion the success of veterans in higher education. Congratulations to all the awardees for their exceptional efforts and contributions!
