Table of Contents
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Day Two Agenda
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Opening Session
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Breakout Session 1
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Breakout Session 2
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Lunch Plenary Session
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Workshop
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Learn about the closing session.
Speakers
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Conference Agenda
Tennessee Room 1 & 2 Agents of Change: The Journey & Future of Military Credit for Prior Learning
Multi-media Room Panel — Access and Affordability: Unlocking Scholarships for Military-Connected Learners
Conference Room D Mental Health Awareness
Conference Room A/C Supporting the Whole Military Community: The Growth and Support of Military Dependents on Campus
Conference Room E School Certifying Official Training
8:30 AM – 9:30 AM | Opening Session 9:45 AM – 10:45 AM | Breakout Session 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Breakout Session
Multi-media Room Panel — Inside the Center: How Veteran Resource Centers Support Student Success
Conference Room D Understanding CPL for Faculty (CA MAP Initiative)
Conference Room A/C VETS Campus Annual Survey
Conference Room E Comprehensive Student Support for Military-Connected Learners: Strengthening Academic, Financial, and Well-Being Pathways
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM | Lunch Plenary Session
Tennessee Room 1 & 2 From Numbers to Impact: How Tennessee’s Veteran Data Can Guide Higher Education
(Continued on next page)
Multi-media Room Beyond Enrollment: Advocating for the Whole Student Veteran Experience
Conference Room D Beyond the Benefits: A Holistic Approach to Veteran Education Services
Conference Room A/C Turn Your Military Experience into Career Opportunities: How to Prove Transferable Skills in the Civilian Workplace
Conference Room E Tri-Stars & Stripes Brainstorm Session
1:45 PM – 3:00 PM | Workshop 3:00 PM | Closing Session
Tennessee Room 1 & 2 Student Panel & Closing Session — Mission Forward: Student Veterans on Grit, Growth, and Getting It Done
Opening Session
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
█ TENNESSEE ROOM 1&2
Agents of Change: The Journey & Future of Military Credit for Prior Learning
Dr. Amy Morys, Senior Partner for Military Learning & Strategy Center for Academic Innovation
Breakout Session 1
9:45 AM – 10:45 AM
█ MULTI-MEDIA ROOM
Panel — Access and Affordability: Unlocking Scholarships for Military-Connected Learners
Join a panel of institutional representatives as they share insights on scholarship opportunities for military-connected students, including active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. This session will highlight a range of funding opportunities, along with guidance on eligibility, application processes, and strategies for maximizing financial support. Panelists will discuss how their institutions support militaryconnected learners through available scholarships, tuition assistance programs, and additional financial resources. Attendees will gain practical knowledge to help navigate funding opportunities and make informed decisions about financing their education.
Jessica Gibson (Moderator)
Jason Seay, Dr. Hilary Miller, Sam Lynn, Jason Wilder, Clarice Griffin, Pat Bivens, Andrea Toney, and Jayetta Rogers
█ CONFERENCE ROOM D
Mental Health Awareness
Community presentation focused on increasing mental health awareness and how chronic stress affects mental health, with discussions on the signs and symptoms of chronic stress, how to cope, and when and how to intervene if needed.
Melody Shipley, Assistant Director
Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone
Breakout Session 1 (cont.)
█ CONFERENCE ROOM A/C
Supporting the Whole Military Community: The Growth and Support of Military Dependents on Campus
Over the last 10 years, the Daniels Center has seen a growing number of traditionally-aged students around our center, and upon research we found that our number of Dependents was growing. The Daniels Center saw a 176% growth in Chapter 35 students, 21.9% in Chapter 33 students, and 60.3% in students not receiving benefits. In this session, we will share some of the trends we have noticed over the last 10 years and what we have done to help our Dependents belong and succeed at MTSU. Additionally, we will share data provided by our students about what they need as students, and how we can better support them.
Rayna Vest, Graduate Assistant Middle Tennessee State University
Breakout Session 1 (cont.)
School Certifying Official Training
The Tennessee State Approving Agency (SAA) will provide comprehensive training designed to support institutions in understanding and meeting the requirements for programs approved for veterans’ education benefits. This session will offer an overview of the SAA’s role, current expectations for compliance, and key regulatory updates impacting institutions and military-connected students. Attendees will learn best practices for maintaining program approval, supporting accurate certification, and strengthening institutional processes related to veterans’ education benefits. The training will also highlight common compliance issues, available resources, and strategies for enhancing the overall experience of veteran and military-connected learners on campus.
Penny Star, Director of Veterans Education
Tennessee State Approving Agency
Irina Goodall, Director of Veterans Education
Tennessee State Approving Agency
Katie Nixon-Thomas, Veterans Education Specialist
Tennessee State Approving Agency
Breakout Session 2
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
█ MULTI-MEDIA ROOM
Panel — Inside the Center: How Veteran
Resource
Centers Support Student Success
Join representatives from institutions across Tennessee for an engaging and informative panel discussion focused on Veteran Resource Centers (VRCs) and the vital role they play in supporting military-connected students. Panelists will share how their centers are structured, staffed, and funded, offering insight into the different models used across campuses. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the services and programs designed to support student veterans, active-duty service members, and their families — from academic advising and benefits certification to peer mentorship, transition assistance, and community-building initiatives.
Pam Carey (Moderator)
Heather Brewer, Bill Bruce, Kim Powell, Nathan Patrick, and Jasmin Linares
█ CONFERENCE ROOM D
Understanding CPL for Faculty (CAP MAP Initiative)
For service members (veterans, active duty, reservists, National Guard), the Joint Services Transcript (JST) is a powerful yet underutilized academic document that captures validated training, experience, and coursework aligned with the American Council on Education (ACE). Title 38 requires us
Breakout Session 2 (cont.)
to evaluate all prior learning as it applies to each VA Benefit recipient’s academic plan upfront. Nationally, ACE credit recommendations (CRs) are inconsistently evaluated and rarely applied outside of elective credit, limiting CPL’s/PLA’s ability to accelerate degree completion and workforce mobility. The California Community Colleges address this through the Mapping Articulated Pathways (MAP) platform, a statewide infrastructure that translates ACE CRs into aligned and transcribed academic credit pathways. Together, the JST, ACE, CPL/PLA, and the MAP platform enable a coordinated, scalable model that ensures consistent credit application, transferability, and improved student outcomes.
Terence Nelson, Executive Director
Pathways and Partnerships
California MAP Initiative
Calvin Gloria, Manager of Training and Military CPL
California MAP Initiative
█ CONFERENCE ROOM A/C
VETS Campus Annual Survey
The Tennessee VETS Campus Survey is a powerful tool for understanding the needs, perceptions, and experiences of military-connected students across higher education institutions. This session will guide attendees through how to effectively interpret survey results and transform data into actionable strategies. Participants will learn how to identify key trends, align findings with campus goals, and use insights to strengthen services that support veterans, service members, and their families.
Dr. Regina Watkins, Director of Veteran Enrollment and Benefits
Tennessee Board of Regents
Breakout Session 2 (cont.)
█ CONFERENCE ROOM E
Comprehensive Student Support for MilitaryConnected Learners: Strengthening Academic, Financial, and Well-Being Pathways
This session explores a comprehensive student support framework designed to assist military-affiliated learners across academic, financial, and well-being dimensions. The session highlights an integrated approach that includes transition programming, academic coaching, benefits literacy, and mental health resource awareness. Together, these elements strengthen student belonging, promote persistence, and enhance overall success for military-connected students. Participants will gain practical strategies and cross-campus practices that can be adapted to improve support at their institutions.
LaTara Pearson, Military-Affiliated Student Success Professional Austin Peay State University
Ana Pla Rosario, Coordinator of Military-Affiliated Advising Austin Peay State University
Lunch Plenary Session
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
█ TENNESSEE 1 & 2
From Numbers to Impact: How Tennessee’s Veteran Data Can Guide Higher Education
MG (Ret.) Tommy H. Baker, Commissioner
Tennessee Department of Veterans Services
Sherry Pickering, Veterans Outreach Coordinator
Tennessee Department of Veterans Services
Workshops
1:45 PM – 3:00 PM
█ MULTI-MEDIA ROOM
Beyond Enrollment: Advocating for the Whole Student Veteran Experience
Building on the morning’s keynote, this workshop moves from framing to practice, examining what meaningful advocacy looks like across the full arc of the student veteran experience. Participants will explore strategies for making the case to institutional leadership for resources that not only recruit student veterans but sustain and retain them after matriculation. Drawing on existing literature and freely available resources, the session will also address how practitioners can effectively communicate the academic strengths veterans bring to the classroom.
Dr. Amy Morys, Senior Partner for Military Learning & Strategy Center for Academic Innovation
Dr. Dallas Kratzer, Senior Partner for Military Initiatives Center for Academic Innovation
█ CONFERENCE ROOM D
Beyond the Benefits: A Holistic Approach to Veteran Education Services
This session explores a holistic model designed to eliminate campus confusion by bringing every essential resource under one roof with a single point of contact. We move beyond benefit processing to focus on what drives success. Unlike traditional advising, the success coach model gives military-
Workshops (cont.)
affiliated students a dedicated contact who understands their transition challenges—from navigating civilian classroom culture to balancing family life and servicerelated needs. We’ll highlight the advantages of a comprehensive department that supports the full student journey, from benefits and class schedules to financial aid. Key takeaways include our success, growth, lessons learned, and what’s next.
Lynzee Patrick, Director of Veteran Services
Roane State Community College
Dr. Kathryn Baker, Executive Director of Student Success
Roane State Community College
█ CONFERENCE ROOM A/C
Turn Your Military Experience into
Career
Opportunities: How to Prove Transferable Skills in the Civilian Workplace
Veterans have highly transferable skills — but civilian hiring systems often struggle to recognize them quickly and consistently. This session follows a practical three-step pathway: identify your transferable skills, capture them in a Skill Passport (a clear, measurable, employer-friendly profile of what you can do), and use that passport to match directly to current job openings. You’ll learn how to describe your skills in plain civilian language, attach simple proof and metrics, and align your strengths to the requirements employers are hiring for right now.
Ksenia Solomatina, Founder PowerTechs
Tri-Stars & Stripes Brainstorm Session
This is a brainstorm opportunity to feed the Education Sub Committee of the TN State Tri-Stars and Stripes Governor’s Council that is committed to enhancing the lives of service members, veterans, and their families (SMVF) across Tennessee. Established by Executive Order 102, this leadership team coordinates efforts among state agencies, private partners, and nonprofits to improve opportunities and resources for our military and veteran community. The Council’s mission is to make Tennessee the best state in the nation for SMVF to reside and thrive. The Council to date has relied on a relatively small group to push initiatives tied to improving educational access and outcomes for the SMVF community.
COL (Ret.) Daniel Bishop, Director, ETSU Military and Veteran Services / TN Tri-Stars and Stripes Education Sub Committee East Tennessee State University
Closing Session
3:00 PM
█ TENNESSEE 1 & 2
Student Panel & Closing Session — Mission
Forward: Student Veterans on Grit, Growth, and Getting It Done
Join us for a powerful closing panel featuring student veterans from across Tennessee sharing their stories of perseverance, growth, and success. Panelists will reflect on the unique challenges and strengths they bring to higher education and the workforce.
Nick Lavery (Moderator)
Chief Warrant Officer Two
Taylor Talley, Student Walters State Community College
Greg Palm, Student Middle Tennessee State University
Capt. Ronda Webb, Student Lipscomb University
Desiree Bland, Student University of Tennessee
Peter Nolan, Student Walters State Community College
Jorge Haro, Student Austin Peay State University
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Keynote Speakers
Will Hubbard
Vice President for Veterans & Military Policy
Veterans Education Success
Will Hubbard serves as Vice President for Veterans & Military Policy at Veterans Education Success, where he works on the federal policies that shape the GI Bill® and the broader veterans’ higher education landscape.
Before stepping into this role in 2021, he led government affairs at Student Veterans of America and helped lead the coalition behind the Forever GI Bill®. He is regularly invited to testify before Congress on veterans’ education and oversight issues, and he often draws on his experience of two decades of service in the Marine Corps Reserves.
As an advocate for veterans and their families since 2008, he works closely with Congress and federal agencies to make change, and has seen firsthand how legislation is negotiated, written, and implemented in Washington. He brings that inside perspective to conversations with institutions serving veterans today.
Will is a former bone marrow donor, a flip-phone user, and an alumnus of American University. He lives in Northern Virginia with his wife and three daughters, Lucy, Ruby, and Zoey. Back to Contents
Keynote Speakers (cont.)
Dr. Amy Morys
MSgt. (Ret.) U.S. Air Force / IL ANG
Senior Partner for Military Learning & Strategy Center for Academic Innovation (CAI)
Dr. Amy Morys is a subject matter expert in military prior learning assessment and non-traditional higher education, and she brings both professional expertise and personal experience to the work.
Amy held administrative leadership roles at Fontbonne University, serving as Director of Academic Services and Director of the Evening Division, where she led advising, registrar, accreditation, and prior learning assessment functions for the university’s non-traditional student population. A firm believer that you can’t fully understand the adult learner journey without being in the classroom, she also taught in undergraduate and graduate business programs throughout her time there, staying directly engaged with students on both a practical and academic level. Amy continues to stay active in the classroom, serving as adjunct business faculty for National Louis University in Chicago.
In roles spanning Manager of Veterans Academic and Career Pathways to Senior Consultant at the Council for Adult & Experiential Learning (CAEL), Amy partnered with colleges, universities, and state higher education systems to develop frameworks aimed at building capacity for the evaluation and articulation of military learning for academic credit. She has also served as a Military Faculty Evaluator for the American Council on Education.
While at Solutions for Information Design (SOLID), Amy directed initiatives within their military credentialing and systems portfolios, leading a team of analysts supporting each of the military Services’ Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL) programs, where military training is directly aligned with non-degree credentials and industry-relevant skills and work roles.
Today, Amy serves as Senior Partner for Military Learning & Strategy at the Center for Academic Innovation (CAI), a nonprofit focused on expanding access and flexibility in higher education for adult learners and military-affiliated on campus. She works with institutions and state higher education systems of all shapes and sizes to implement evidence-based strategies for honoring and recognizing military and workplace learning through academic credit.
After more than 21 years of service, including two deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Amy retired as a Master Sergeant from the U.S. Air Force/Illinois Air National Guard in 2023.
Keynote Speakers (cont.)
Tommy H. Baker
MG (Ret.) U.S. Army / TNARNG
Commissioner
Tennessee Department of Veterans Services
Major General (Ret.) Tommy H. Baker is the Commissioner for Tennessee’s Department of Veteran Services. He has served as the Commissioner since December of 2020. As Commissioner, he manages the agency’s operations, coordinates mission execution, and oversees 136 state employees. General Baker’s mission is to passionately serve veterans of all eras, their families, and dependents through passionate advocacy, informative outreach, and ensure they have an honorable final resting place.
General Baker retired from the Tennessee National Guard, with 41 years of service, as the Deputy Commander to the Adjutant General.
General Baker has been awarded the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Combat Action Badge, and the Tennessee Distinguished Service Medal, just to name a few.
General Baker’s interest and hobbies are centered on his family, spending time outdoors, and his faith. He is married to Camille who is a consultant for Head Start Programs in the Southeast Region. He and Camille have two adult children, Hillari and Cody, their daughter-in-law Niti, granddaugther Grace, and grandson Gage.
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Keynote Speakers (cont.)
Sherry Pickering
Veterans Outreach Coordinator
Tennessee Department of Veterans Services
Sherry Pickering, LCSW, serves as a Veterans Outreach Coordinator for the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services and is the Founder of the Montgomery County Veterans Coalition, which she led as Executive Director for nine years.
A lifelong advocate for military families, Sherry’s commitment is both professional and personal. As a military spouse, she supported Fort Campbell families through three deployments, serving as both a Battery and Battalion Family Readiness Group Leader. She also played a vital role on care teams supporting families of the fallen—experiences that continue to shape her purposedriven work today. She remains closely connected to the military community as the spouse of a retired U.S. Army Veteran.
Sherry earned her Master of Social Work from Austin Peay State University and is the author of Homefires: War Through the Eyes of a Military Wife, a heartfelt account of military family life during wartime. Her leadership and impact have been recognized through numerous honors, including the Molly Pitcher Award, the Citizenship Award, the Dr. Mary Walker Award, the APSU Military Alumni Excellence Award, the Tennessee Governor’s Volunteer Star Award, and official proclamations of recognition from the City of Clarksville, Montgomery County, and the State of Tennessee.
Sherry and her husband are the proud parents of three children and remain deeply committed to strengthening outcomes for service members, veterans, and their families across Tennessee.
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Keynote Speakers (cont.)
Nick Lavery CW2, U.S. Army Special Forces
Author
of Objective Secure: The Battle-Tested Guide to Goal Achievement
Nick, born and raised in Massachusetts, is an active-duty member of the United States Army Special Forces. Commonly known as the Green Berets, the Special Forces perform critical missions including direct action, counterinsurgency, foreign internal defense, special reconnaissance, and unconventional warfare.
In 2013, while deployed to Afghanistan, he and his detachment fell victim to an insider attack ultimately resulting in the loss of his leg. Following a year of surgeries and initial recovery including the use of a prosthetic at Walter Reed National Medical Military Center, he returned to his unit. Refusing a military-medical retirement, Nick set his sights on returning to operational status.
In 2015, at the conclusion of a challenging, comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate Nick’s abilities to operate, he returned to his detachment and was subsequently deployed once again to Afghanistan conducting full-spectrum combat operations. Nick is considered the first Special Forces operator to return to combat as an above-the-knee amputee.
Nick is currently serving as a Special Forces Warrant Officer and is widely recognized as an experienced subject matter expert in special operations, intelligence fusion, mission planning and complex problem solving across all operational continuums. He is also the first amputee in military history to complete the Special Forces Warrant Officer Technical and Tactical Certification course, the Special Operations Combatives Program Instructor course, and the Special Forces Combat Diver Qualification course.
(Nick Lavery
cont.)
Nick’s awards include the Silver Star, three Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars, Bronze Star with “V” for valor, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, two Army Commendation Medals, Army Achievement Medal, the OSS Society Peter Ortiz Award, the Bruce Price Leadership Award, and the Special Operations Command Excalibur Award.
Nick is a warrior, leader, speaker, author, and most importantly, a husband and father of two young boys. Back to Contents
Speakers
William Bruce
Special Programs Coordinator
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT)
Special Programs Coordinator at Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Upper Cumberland, Bill participates in workforce development and training program management— designing, launching, and delivering customized technical training for industry partners and correctional institutions. His work focuses on skills-based curriculum alignment, employer engagement, and measurable outcomes that strengthen hiring pipelines and accelerate job-ready credential attainment. He also serves as the military liaison for military-connected students, helping them translate experience into certifications and career pathways. Bruce holds a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Liberty University and has eight years of experience delivering workforce-aligned solutions.
Previously, Bruce served in the U.S. Navy (Aviation Electronics and Crisis Response Force training), with assignments in Sigonella, Sicily; aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower; and at Naval Air Station Cecil Field. After his service, Bruce developed 30+ years of hands-on experience in technical operations and maintenance across manufacturing and healthcare environments, including biomedical equipment repair and facilities maintenance. His training leadership perspective prioritizes safety, standard work, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement in every program.
In his spare time, Bruce enjoys being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and camping.
Speakers (cont.)
Heather Brewer
School Certifying Official (SCO) and Coordinator of Adult Learners and Veterans Affairs
Volunteer State Community College
Heather Brewer is a dedicated military-connected professional currently serving as a School Certifying Official (SCO) and Coordinator of Adult Learners and Veterans Affairs at Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin, TN. Since January 2025, she has supported student veterans, service members, and adult learners by guiding them through VA education benefits, academic pathways, and career development opportunities.
Heather brings over 10 years of military experience from her service in the Navy, where she held key roles as a Career Advisor, Logistics Manager, and Program Management Unit Supervisor. Throughout her military career, she specialized in mentoring service members, facilitating career transitions, and managing large-scale programs that directly impacted readiness and retention.
Her passion for education and lifelong learning is grounded in her own academic journey. Heather holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Middle Tennessee State University and an Associate of Arts in Business Administration from American Military University. She combines her operational expertise with a deep understanding of adult learning principles to create supportive, accessible environments where learners can thrive.
Speakers (cont.)
Jasmin Linares
SGT (Ret.) U.S. Army / U.S. Army Reserves
Assistant Vice President for Military & Veterans Affairs
Austin Peay State University
Ms. Jasmin Linares serves as the Assistant Vice President for Military & Veterans Affairs at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN. Prior to this, she held several key positions within APSU, including Director of the Newton Military Family Resource Center, Coordinator of the Military Student Center, Veterans Affairs Counselor, and Veterans Affairs Technical Clerk. Her work spans both the Fort Campbell and Clarksville Campuses, where she has been a dedicated APSU community member since November 2007.
With an unwavering dedication to supporting military-affiliated students, Ms. Linares has devoted 18 years to APSU, championing the academic and personal success of veterans, active-duty, Reserve, National Guard members, and their families. Her efforts have ensured they receive comprehensive support and resources tailored to their unique needs, helping them succeed academically and personally. She previously served as a Human Resources Assistant for the Director of Human Resources at Fort Jackson from 2003 to 2007.
Before transitioning to civilian service, Ms. Linares began her Army career in February 1996. As an enlisted Soldier, she served at Fort Jackson, South Carolina; Fort Drum, New York; and Hohenfels, Germany, specializing in Human Resources. Her dedication extended to the Army Reserves, where she served as a Human Resources Manager from 2001 to 2019, in multiple locations, retiring in November 2019.
(Jasmin Linares cont.)
Ms. Linares holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. She also earned a second bachelor’s degree in Foreign Language and a Master of Science in Management from Austin Peay State University.
Back to Contents
Speakers (cont.)
Nathan Patrick CPO (Ret.) U.S. Navy
Veteran and Military Affairs
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Nathan Patrick is a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer, devoted husband, and proud father of five whose life and career have been shaped by service, leadership, and a commitment to helping others. He currently works in Veteran and Military Affairs at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), where he supports veterans and military-connected students as they navigate higher education. He is also pursuing a PhD in Leadership and Decision-Making at UTC. Outside of work and school, Nathan enjoys spending time with his family, caring for their three dogs, and collecting Pokémon cards.
Speakers (cont.)
Andrea Toney
U.S. Army
Director, Veterans & Military Student Support University of Memphis
Andrea Toney is a U.S. Army combat veteran, community leader, and currently serving in a director-level capacity with the Veterans & Military Student Support office at the University of Memphis. With 15 years of military service and over two decades of community engagement, she is deeply committed to advancing access, advocacy, and student success for militaryconnected communities.
In her role, Andrea supports students in navigating educational benefits and connecting to resources that strengthen their academic and personal journeys. Her work is grounded in service, leadership, and a passion for empowering others to move forward with confidence and clarity.
She is also the founder of Honor Her Courage, a platform dedicated to uplifting the voices and stories of women veterans, and proudly holds the title of Ms. Black Mississippi USA, 2026.
Speakers (cont.)
Pat Bivens
MSgt. (Ret.) U.S. Air Force
Director of Military and Veteran Services
Carson-Newman
Bivens retired at the rank of Master Sergeant from the United States Air Force in 2008. In 2022, Bivens retired from full-time teaching and as the Director of Bands at Carson-Newman University to take over as the Director of Military and Veterans Services. She has over 25 years of experience in higher education. The Dublin, Maryland native holds a Bachelor of Arts in Trombone Performance from West Virginia Wesleyan College, a Master of Arts in in Music Education from Texas Christian University and has completed doctoral coursework in Music Education at Boston University. She is an active musician in the local area, the Post Service Officer at American Legion Post 113 in Jefferson City, and volunteers with various veterans organizations. In her spare time, she loves to travel. Back to Contents
Speakers (cont.)
Clarice Griffin
Veteran Affairs Program Manager
Motlow State Community College
Clarice Griffin serves as the Veteran Affairs Program Manager at Motlow State Community College. Prior to her current role, she worked as a Program Coordinator at Centerstone, where she supported the Supportive Services for Veterans and Families (SSVF) program. As a Marine Corps spouse, Clarice dedicated 13 years of volunteer service to the Family Readiness Program, providing support to active-duty families. She is also the proud mother of an active-duty Navy service member.
Speakers (cont.)
Dr. Hilary J. Miller
Director of the Charlie and Hazel Daniels
Veterans and Military Family Center
Middle Tennessee State University
Dr. Hilary Miller attended Texas Christian University, The University of Texas at Austin, and Vanderbilt University. She is employed at MTSU as the Director of the Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center (Daniels Center).
Dr. Miller’s work focuses on the concept of transition, primarily that of military-connected students and the move from service to college. She is a member of MTSU’s Veterans Memorial Committee and the Veterans and Military Affairs Committee. Additionally, she was an advisor to the Governor’s Veteran Education Taskforce, was on the Tennessee Higher Education Commission’s Veterans Prior Learning Assessment Taskforce, and is the primary investigator on numerous Tennessee Higher Education Commission’s Veterans Reconnect Grants. She speaks regularly across Tennessee on the topic of serving military-connected students and families.
Dr. Miller is a past recipient of MTSU’s Administrative Public Service Award for her work in bringing attention to the upgrade and safety needs of the Marine standard issue combat helmet, the Trailblazer Award which recognized women in public service and government, and the Department of the Army’s Outstanding Public Service Award. From 2017-2018, Dr. Miller was selected to participate in the Complete Tennessee Leadership Institute, which examined issues related to postsecondary access and completion. She has taught in MTSU’s graduate education program and the accelerated undergraduate leadership program.
(Dr. Hilary J. Miller cont.)
Dr. Miller is a ruck marcher. She and her husband Lt. Col. (Ret.)) Joel Miller and an MTSU Blue Raider Battalion ruck team competed in seven Mountain Man Memorial Marches. In 2016, 2017, and 2023, she had the overall fastest time for the Individual Civilian Light Full Marathon Category. She and Joel have three children and live in Murfreesboro, TN.
Speakers (cont.)
Jason Wilder
U.S. Marine Corps
Associate Director of Military and Veteran Services
East Tennessee State University
Jason Wilder is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served from 2005 to 2013 as both a machine gunner and an F/A-18 structural mechanic. During his service, he completed multiple deployments, including operations in Ramadi, Iraq; Kandahar, Afghanistan; participation in the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU); and a Unit Deployment Program (UDP).
Following his military service, Wilder enrolled at East Tennessee State University (ETSU), where he earned both a Bachelors of Social Work and a Master of Education. Since 2015, he has worked full-time in higher education, supporting student success and engagement. In 2022, he joined the ETSU Military and Veteran Services Office, where he continues to serve and advocate for military-affiliated students.
Speakers (cont.)
Jayetta Rogers
Veterans Benefits
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Jayetta Rogers works for the Veterans Benefits Administration at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she leads the department in all aspects of benefit management for UT’s veteran students, including ensuring state and federal compliance, coordinating financial matters with campus and external partners, and overseeing all documentation and record keeping.
Rogers holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Research with a concentration in adult education from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Speakers (cont.)
Sam Lynn U.S. Marine Corps
Director of Veteran Services
Lipscomb University
Sam is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who spent 10 years active duty service with the 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, including four years as the Chief Instructor and Administrator of Headquarters Battalion’s marksmanship coach and instructor academy in Twentynine Palms, California. He earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Business Administration and is currently working on a Master of Arts in Conflict Management at Lipscomb University using his Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits and the Yellow Ribbon program. While he was working toward his MBA, Sam was hired by Lipscomb in 2017 to improve and standardize the process of awarding student veterans transfer credits for their military education and experience, enabling them to make the most of their GI Bill® benefits. Soon after completing his MBA, Sam accepted the position of Director of Veteran Services in 2019, where he continues to work as an advocate for our student veterans and dependents.
Speakers (cont.)
COL (Ret.) Daniel Bishop
Director ETSU Military and Veteran Services/TN Tri-Stars and Stripes Education
Sub Committee
East Tennessee State University
Colonel Dan Bishop graduated from the University of California at Santa Barbara in 1996 as a distinguished military graduate, receiving his commission as an Armor officer.
After completing his Basic Officer Course at Fort Knox, KY, his first assignment was to the 2nd Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment in Friedberg, Germany, where he served as a Tank Platoon Leader and Company Executive Officer. During this assignment, COL Bishop met his wife Kristen who was also serving in Germany, assigned as a Quartermaster Officer.
COL Bishop transitioned to the Military Intelligence Corps, attending the Intelligence Transition, Advanced, as well as Counterintelligence courses. COL Bishop spent his Captain years assigned to Fort Hood, Texas with the 1st Cavalry Division where he served in a variety of positions to include Division Intelligence Collection Manager, Senior Intelligence Officer for 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, and Assistant Operations Officer for the 312th Military Intelligence Battalion. COL Bishop deployed as the 312th’s Headquarters Company Commander to Baghdad, Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II from 2004-2005.
Following OIF II, COL Bishop attended graduate school at Columbia University as part of the Eisenhower Leadership Development Program, earning a Master’s degree in Organizational Psychology with a follow-on assignment as a student at the Command and General Staff College.
(Daniel Bishop cont.)
Reassigned in 2007 to Fort Bragg, NC, he served with the Joint Special Operations Command initially as an Intelligence Planner, later serving as J2 Chief of Future Operations, and finally as the J2X, responsible for Human Intelligence, Counterintelligence, and Detention operations. COL Bishop deployed to Iraq multiple times with a Joint Special Operations Task Force.
From 2012 to 2014, COL Bishop served as the Professor of Military Science at East Tennessee State University. He followed his tour at ETSU with an assignment as Commander, 308th Military Intelligence Battalion. After which, COL Bishop deployed to Afghanistan in July 2016 serving with the NATO Special Operations Component Command - Afghanistan.
In 2017, COL Bishop served as a U.S. Army War College Fellow at the Walsh School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University. In 2018, COL Bishop was assigned to the Pentagon, Sensitive and Special Operations Division, and later served as the Deputy Director, DoD Human Intelligence and Sensitive Activities in the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security.
Following retirement, COL Bishop assumed the position of Director, Office of Military and Veteran Services at East Tennessee State University in February of 2022.
COL Bishop’s awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal (3 Oak Leaf Clusters), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, the Combat Action Badge, and both U.S. and Dutch Parachutist Badges.
COL Bishop and his wife Kristen are blessed with two children, Ethan and McKenna.
Back to Contents
Speakers (cont.)
Dr. Kathryn Baker
Executive Director of Student Services
Roane State Community
College
As Executive Director of Student Services at Roane State Community College, Dr. Baker is dedicated to reimagining higher education through radical, student-first innovation. With a career defined by the transition from reactive support to proactive empowerment, Kat has pioneered a holistic success coaching model that integrates academic, financial, and personal wellness into a single, seamless student journey.
An administrator with over 20 years of experience in higher education, she remains committed to implementing initiatives that break down institutional barriers, ensuring that every student has the tools and resources required to thrive from orientation to graduation. Dr. Baker holds a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration from Capella University and a Master of Education in Student Personnel and Policy Analysis from East Tennessee State University, providing a strong foundation for their work in data-driven retention strategies and student advocacy.
Speakers (cont.)
Calvin Klein Gloria Manager of Training and Military CPL
California MAP Initiative
Calvin serves as the Manager of Training and Military CPL with the California MAP Initiative, where he leads statewide efforts to translate military experience and coursework into meaningful, portable academic credit. A U.S. Navy veteran and former aviation mechanic, Calvin brings both lived military experience and deep technical expertise to advancing equitable postsecondary pathways for service members (veterans, active duty, reservists, and National Guard).
Recognized as a subject matter expert in Joint Services Transcript (JST) analysis and implementation, he specializes in aligning JST data with American Council on Education (ACE) Credit Recommendations and integrating those alignments into the Mapping Articulated Pathways (MAP) Platform. His work focuses on moving JST evaluation from inconsistent, campus-by-campus practices to a coordinated, scalable statewide model that improves credit portability, accelerates time-to-degree, and strengthens workforce alignment.
He collaborates collectively with staff, faculty, and administrators to advance aligned, student-centered CPL practices that support our military population. Through cross-system collaboration with California Community Colleges, universities, and national partners, Calvin is helping redefine how military prior learning is recognized—ensuring that validated service members’ experience and coursework is consistently applied where credit is due.
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Speakers (cont.)
Dr. Regina Watkins
Director of Veteran Enrollment and Benefits
Tennessee Board of Regents
Dr. Watkins was appointed Director of Veteran Enrollment and Benefits at at the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) in The College System of Tennessee in the Office of Student Success in 2022. She works directly with the College System’s 13 community colleges and 24 Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology across the state to provide support to their School Certifying Officers (SCOs) in administering veteran education benefits.
Prior to working for TBR, Watkins served over 20 years as campus director at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide - Ft. Campbell Campus, where she assisted active-duty service members, veterans, and military family members from initial meeting through graduation. She successfully established two SkillBridge Programs at her campus for transitioning service members, the Microsoft Software Systems Academy and Aviation Maintenance Technology program.
She earned a Master of Public Administration from Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky, and a Master of Science in Project Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and completed a Doctor of Business Administration in Organizational Leadership from Northcentral University.
She presents at state, regional, and national events as a subject matter expert on military-affiliated student services, research, policy and procedure, compliance, strategy, and organizational leadership. Dr. Watkins is a adjunct faculty member teaching online doctoral courses in strategy and leadership.
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Speakers (cont.)
LaTara Pearson
Military-Affiliated Student Success Professional
Austin Peay State University
LaTara Pearson is a devoted wife, mother, and educator whose heart for service and commitment to student success continue to positively influence the next generation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration, complemented by a minor in Marketing.
With 16 years of experience in higher education, LaTara has spent the past 10 years supporting military-affiliated students, a population she serves with dedication and purpose. For the last five years, she has proudly worked at Austin Peay State University as the Military-Affiliated Student Success Professional, guiding students through their academic journeys with encouragement, consistency, and genuine care.
LaTara has also taught as a college instructor for the past nine years, specializing in courses for freshman and sophomore students. She is passionate about teaching, coaching, and helping new students build confidence as they navigate the transition into college life. Many students affectionately call her “Mrs. LaTara” or “Mrs. P.”, a reflection of the close rapport she builds with those she serves.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, LaTara treasures her family above all. She and her husband have been together for 18 years, and they share three wonderful young adult children. In her free time, she enjoys working out, attending church, spending time with loved ones, and relaxing with simple joys like playing games on her phone. LaTara truly loves what she does and strives to uplift, empower, and inspire every student she encounters.
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Speakers (cont.)
Penny Starr Director of Veterans Education
Tennessee State Approving Agency
Penny Starr serves as a Director of Veterans Education for the Tennessee State Approving Agency (TN-SAA) at the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC). With 10 years of experience in veteran education, Penny’s primary focus is ensuring education and training institutions with approved programs meet all federal and state statues aligning to the GI Bill® through conducting Department of Veterans Affairs Risk Based Surveys and Supervisory Visits. Prior to joining the TN-SAA, Penny served as a School Certifying Official at Volunteer State Community College. Penny’s husband, Dennis, retired from the U.S. Army after 22 years of service. When they are not busy chasing after their twin grandsons, Penny and Dennis will most likely be found at Bridgestone Arena cheering on the Nashville Predators.
Speakers (cont.)
Irina Goodall U.S. Army
Director of Veterans Education
Tennessee State Approving Agency
Irina Goodall currently serves as a Director of Veterans Education with the Tennessee State Approving Agency (TN-SAA). She has been with the agency for over three years. She served four years in the United States Army. During her time in the Army, she was assigned to 2nd Battalion 44th Air Defense Artillery Regiment at Fort Campbell and completed one deployment to Afghanistan. Working at the TN-SAA provides her with the opportunity to ensure all veterans and dependents are receiving quality education while using their earned benefits. Prior to starting at the TN-SAA, Irina worked as the Director for Embry Riddle Aeronautical University’s Aviation Maintenance Technology SkillBridge Program at Fort Campbell for transitioning service members. Additionally, she served as Associate Campus Director where she assisted veterans, service members, and military family members with all aspects of student services from admission to graduation including veteran education benefits and military tuition assistance. Back to Contents
Speakers (cont.)
Katie Nixon-Thomas Veterans Education Specialist
Tennessee State Approving Agency
Katie Nixon-Thomas serves as a Veterans Education Specialist for the Tennessee State Approving Agency (TN-SAA) at the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC). With three years of experience in veteran education, Katie is responsible for ensuring that education and training institutions with approved programs meet all federal and state statutes required to align with the GI Bill®. She inspects, approves, maintains compliance, and supervises approved programs and conducts approved programs, including conducting Department of Veterans Affairs Risk-Based Surveys, supervisory visits, and technical visits. Prior to joining TN-SAA, Katie served as a Financial Aid Support Specialist, Financial Aid Coordinator, and Veterans Affairs Liaison and School Certifying Official at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis for five years. She also worked with the Tennessee Board of Regents’ Shared Services team as a Financial Aid Support Associate. With 17 years of experience in higher education, Katie remains dedicated to providing exceptional service across the state.
Speakers (cont.)
Desiree Bland
U.S. Navy
Student
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Desiree is 28 years old and originally from the Houston, TX area. She served nine years in the United Stated Navy, transitioning from active duty to a full-time student in December of 2024. While Desiree was active duty, she used tuition assistance to earn an associate’s degree and is currently a junior in the Honors Program majoring in Social Work. Desiree works part time at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in the Veteran Success Center and is a social work intern at the Department of Children’s Services. She is passionate about using both her lived experience and education to create meaningful change and advocate to help the lives of others.
Speakers (cont.)
Greg
Palm
U.S. Marine Corps
Student
Middle Tennessee State University
Greg is a United States Marine Corps Veteran, serving from 2016 to 2022. During his career, he enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve as a Military Police Officer and was mobilized twice. Once in support of Operation Inherent Resolve 2018-2019, and secondly for a deployment to Guantanamo Bay in 2021 with the Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team with Marine Corps Security Forces Regiment.
Greg left the service and attended Middle Tennessee State University in pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in History with a 6-12 Secondary History Teaching License to pursue a career as a Secondary History Educator. He will begin that journey this upcoming fall in Middle Tennessee. Greg is also a practicing historian, having traveled abroad to Australia performing original scholarship and research in the hopes of finding a still unaccounted for Marine Aviator from WWII in the South Pacific. Greg did this research with the support of the Undergraduate Research Center and the MTSU Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center, stating, “it wouldn’t have been possible without their support.”
Greg plans to continue his education in history in by attending The Citadel to pursue his Master of Arts In Military History. His career ambitions include, but are not limited to, pursuing his dream of becoming a Military History Professor at the United States Naval Academy.
Greg has been married for seven years and has two daughters.
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Speakers (cont.)
Jessica Gibson
Senior Director of Adult Learner Initiatives
Tennessee Higher Education Commission
Jessica Gibson is the Senior Director of Adult Learner Initiatives at the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC). Jessica leads THEC’s initiatives focused on increasing education attainment rates among adults, including those who started college but did not complete a degree or credential. Through this work, she contributes to strategic planning on student completion, including Tennessee Reconnect, the component of the initiative focused on adult learners. She leads a statewide team providing navigation support to adult learners throughout their college journeys. Jessica favors a systems approach to student support, partnering across state agencies and local organizations to provide access to varied and needed student resources.
Prior to joining THEC, Jessica served six years as a policy analyst for the Offices of Research and Education Accountability, a division within the Tennessee State Comptroller’s office, before serving as a policy advisor for former Governor Phil Bredesen. Jessica holds a bachelor’s degree from Centre College and a Master of Arts in International Development Studies from The George Washington University.
Speakers (cont.)
Jason Seay
Senior Director of Outreach
Tennessee Higher Education Commission
Jason Seay is the Senior Director of Outreach for the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC). A Kentucky native, Jason joined the agency in 2006 where he leads a team of Outreach Specialists assisting students and parents with the college financial aid process. Jason earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public administration from Western Kentucky University where he met his wife, Pamela.
Speakers (cont.)
Melody Shipley
Assistant Director
Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone
Melody Shipley is a Licensed Professional Counselor and an artist who has worked with adults and children in a clinical setting since 2019. Melody currently serves as the Assistant Director of the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone in Clarksville, TN. Melody holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Austin Peay State University. Her research on the effectiveness of a community-based art programs in helping people process feelings about 9/11 was published in 2020 in the Journal of Creativity in Mental Health. She has a passion for helping military affiliated individuals manage anxiety, life transitions, depression, and traumarelated issues using evidence-based practices like cognitive behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, written exposure therapy, and cognitive processing therapy. As a practicing artist, Melody also believes in the power of creativity for helping clients find insights by expressing emotions and experiences in nonverbal ways. Melody is a trauma informed therapist who works with each client collaboratively to meet their goals and experience peace and healing.
Speakers (cont.)
Rayna Vest
Graduate Assistant
Middle Tennessee State University
Rayna Vest is a Tennessee native and proud alumna of Middle Tennessee State University. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and will graduate in August with her Master’s of Education in Higher Education Administration and Supervision. She currently serves as a graduate assistant with the MTSU Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center, where her duties include creating programming for all militaryconnected students and working with students through the VA Education Benefits process. As a pre-service higher education professional, Rayna is passionate about helping all students thrive, and her areas of interest include understanding what student success looks like and implementing strategies to support it.
Speakers (cont.)
Kim Powell
Assistant Director of the Office of Adult Degree Programs and Veteran Success
Belmont University
Kim Powell is the Assistant Director of the Office of Adult Degree Programs and Veteran Success at Belmont University. In her role, she leads the Office of Adult Degree Programs and Veteran Success, including managing partnerships with the Nashville Ballet and the Turney Center. Kim develops initiatives to improve the student experience for all student veterans on campus and is also an academic advisor for multiple student populations served by Adult Degree Programs.
Kim has a passion for encouraging and working with students to achieve their educational goals and dreams. She genuinely enjoys helping students discover their strengths that will inform their careers and bring about the joy of learning.
She is a native Tennessean and is an alumna of Belmont with a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing. She has been a part of Belmont since 1989 and has seen tremendous growth at the university. She enjoys working within a caring community that strives to aid students in their own personal growth and transformation. Back to Contents
Speakers (cont.)
Dr. Dallas F. Kratzer II
Senior Partner for Military Initiatives
Center for Academic Innovation
Dr. Kratzer serves as a Senior Partner with the Center for Academic Innovation (CAI), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting higher education institutions. He focuses on the implementation of military credit for prior learning programs and promotes workforce engagement through educational attainment.
Prior to CAI, he served as a:
· Senior Fellow for Academic Excellence and Student Success with KY Council on Postsecondary Education. He led an initiative to expand credit for prior learning (CPL) at state schools across Kentucky.
· Faculty Evaluator with the American Council on Education (ACE), evaluating military workplace learning and official training courses to recommend the awarding of college-level credit. His contributions have directly benefited service members from all military branches, as reflected in their Joint Service Transcript (JST).
· Training consultant with the Council on Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), conducting CPL/M-CPL seminars at colleges and universities nationwide.
· Senior Associate at the Kentucky Commission on Military Affairs, where he advised senior staff on educational and workforce initiatives related to the military community in Kentucky. Dr. Kratzer also represented the Commission on the Kentucky Workforce Innovation Board and served as co-chair for the Veterans and Transitioning Service members sub-committee.
(Dr. Dallas F. Kratzer II cont.)
Dr. Kratzer received his Bachelor of Science in Management/ Human Resources from Park University, a Master of Philosophy in Military Strategy from Air University, a Master of Arts in Christian Education from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and his Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development from the University of Louisville. He brings over 35 years of leadership, management, and teaching experience from his time in the U.S. Air Force where he served in numerous senior advisor positions.
Speakers (cont.)
Lynzee Patrick
Director of Veterans Services
Roane State Community College
Lynzee Patrick is a dedicated leader in higher education with over a decade of experience championing the success of college students. As a Director of Veteran Services, she specializes in a holistic approach to student support, ensuring that veterans, active-duty members, and their families receive comprehensive care that extends far beyond traditional benefits processing.
Throughout her 10-year career working in higher education, Ms. Patrick has been a driving force behind the integration of academic, financial, and college resources. She understands that the transition from military to civilian life is multifaceted and has successfully implemented programs that address the “whole student”—bridging the gap between military service and academic achievement.
Ms. Patrick holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of West Georgia, a degree that informs her strategic approach to policy development and organizational leadership. This academic foundation allows her to navigate complex federal and state regulations while maintaining a results-driven environment focused on retention, graduation rates, and career placement for the veteran population.
Speakers (cont.)
Capt. Ronda Webb
U.S. Air National Guard
Student
Lipscomb University
Ronda Webb is an attorney and Air Force JAG Guardsman whose career spans education law, healthcare regulation, and public service. She currently serves as an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Franklin, providing legal counsel on municipal operations, governance, and regulatory compliance. Previously, she served as Deputy Branch Chief for the Education Law Branch at the Department of the Air Force, advancing equitable access to education for military connected families, including those in the Exceptional Family Member Program. Ronda’s legal career includes roles across state agencies and public interest organizations, consistently focused on advocacy, policy implementation, and community impact. She earned her Master of Arts in Leadership and Public Service from Lipscomb University and remains deeply engaged in youth mentorship and service driven leadership.
Speakers (cont.)
Peter Nolan
U.S. Marine Corps / CAARNG Student
Walter State Community College
In 1998, after graduating from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Arts in French, Peter Nolan enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served for four years. He then acquired an Associate of Arts in Chinese Mandarin and served with the California Army National Guard as an Interrogator for three and a half years. Peter then re-enlisted in the Marines where he acquired an Associate of Arts in Korean language and served as a Cryptologic Linguist. He retired in 2018, after which he was a substitute teacher in Southern California. Peter now studies Agricultural Business at Walters State Community College and resides in Rogersville, TN.
Speakers (cont.)
Jorge
Haro
U.S. Air Force
Student
Austin Peay University
Born and raised in Casa Grande, AZ, Jorge Haro proudly served in the United States Air Force from 2000 to 2014 as a U.S. Air Force 3F1X1 Services Specialist. During his military career, he was stationed at various locations, including Elmendorf, Alaska; Minot, North Dakota; Kunsan, South Korea; and Ramstein, Germany. After completing his service, he pursued his passion for the culinary arts by attending culinary school. He is currently a student at Austin Peay State University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in social work, with an expected graduation in fall 2026. He also plans to attend Austin Peay University for his master’s in social work with the goal of working with veterans who suffer from PTSD. In addition, he works as a federal student worker at the Newton Military Family Resource Center at Austin Peay University, where he supports military families and the campus community.
Speakers (cont.)
Terence Nelson
Executive
Director,
Pathways and Partnerships
California MAP Initiative
Terence Nelson is the Executive Director of Pathways and Partnerships for the California MAP Initiative. He holds a Master of Education in Counseling and Master of Science in Physical Education. He has more than 25 years of experience in California community colleges, from faculty roles to administration. Prior to this role, he was a counselor for veterans at Saddleback College and creator and coordinator of the Veterans Education and Transition Services (VETS) Program. Terence served as the President of the Region VIII Veterans Program Directors Consortium, covering 20 colleges from Mission Viejo to Glendora, and is the Region VIII representative to the State Chancellor’s Office. He also represented ASCCC on CPL workgroups, and various higher education organizations such as CMTE and NAVPA. He currently is the Chairman of CMTE. Terence also served on the Southern California Army Advisory Council, VES Elevate Advisory Board, and on the Orange County Legislative Task Force.
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Speakers (cont.)
Ana Pla Rosario Coordinator of Military-Affiliated Advising Austin Peay State University
Ana C. Pla Rosario is the Coordinator of Military-Affiliated Advising at Austin Peay State University and a devoted militaryaffiliated professional, educator, advisor, and advocate committed to advancing student success through service, access, and belonging. Originally from Puerto Rico and a military child, she brings a personal understanding of transition, resilience, and navigating complex systems into her work with militaryconnected students.
Ana holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry and a master’s degree in Healthcare Administration. She is certified in Appreciative Advising, trained in Green Zone and Safe Zone practices, and holds a micro-credential in Inclusive Leadership. She received the Governor’s Excellence Award at APSU in 2025.
With experience in higher education since 2018, Ana supports military-connected students through advising, case management, advocacy, and policy navigation. She also serves as an instructor in University College and is passionate about empowering militaryconnected students to see their experiences as strengths and recognize themselves as capable, confident college scholars.
Speakers (cont.)
Pam Carey
Volunteer State Community College
Pam Carey recently retired as a higher educational professional after serving nearly three decades in both the areas of academic and student affairs. She completed her entire tenure in higher education at Volunteer State Community College, a public state institution located northeast of Nashville in Gallatin, TN.
In each position at Volunteer State Community College, Pam focused on four commitments for student success: enrollment, retention, achievement, and completion.
She began in the Health Sciences Division, assisting faculty and administration with students who had career goals as healthcare professionals. Pam was promoted to Assistant Director of Records, which included international student enrollment processes, NJCAA athletic eligibility compliance, and supervisor of the Coordinator of Veterans Affairs.
She retired as Manager of Adut Learners and Veterans Affairs after serving in the role during the last eight years of her career. Her responsibility as the VA Primary School Certifying Official was the most fulfilling and rewarding of all in her professional life. She will be remembered by her colleagues for the major role she played in the establishment of the Dr. Orinthia T. Montague Veterans and Military Family Center that is being utilized and enjoyed by the college’s veterans and other members of the military community.
Pam plans to spend her retirement first and foremost visiting with family and spoiling grandkids while also finding time to
complete long overdue home remodeling projects. She looks forward to staying involved with organizations that serve veterans and military-connected students and continuing to support this community. (Pam Carey cont.)