Thank you, veterans!
The Mary Frances Early College of Education thanks all faculty, staff, and student veterans for their service. This year, we asked veterans in the College to share their experience in the military. Read their responses below:
Krystin Abt (M.S. ’24), graduate student, Center for Autism and Behavioral Education Research
- Branch: Navy
- Years of service: 1
- Rank: Airman
“The military helped shaped my leadership and formed my sense of humor.”
Ron Braxley, digital media professional associate, Office of Information Technology
- Branch: Air Force
- Years of service: 10
- Rank: Prior enlisted/captain
- Awards and decorations: Air Force Outstanding Unit Award; Air Force Organizational Excellence Award; Air Force Overseas Service Ribbon; Air Force Longevity Service Award; Air Force Achievement Award; Air Force Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal; Buzzard of the Year (squadron award)
“Stand at ease!”
Takenya Moore, human resources coordinator, Office of Faculty and Staff Services
- Branch: Air Force
- Years of service: 18
- Rank: Master sergeant
- Awards and decorations: Meritorious Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster; Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster; Outstanding Unit Medal with one silver leaf cluster; Air Force Recognition Ribbon with one oak leaf cluster; National Defense Service Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Humanitarian Service Medal
Thomas Reeves, professor emeritus, Department of Career and Information Studies
- Branch: Army
- Years of service: 2
- Rank: Specialist 4
“As part of my preparation to become a chaplain’s assistant, I completed an audio-visual training course at Fort Hamilton, New York. This sparked my interest in the use of media in education. I spent most of my two years as the base chaplain’s assistant at Dugway Proving Grounds in Utah.”
Alexandria Spencer (B.S.Ed. ’23), undergraduate student, communication sciences and disorders
- Branch: Army
- Years of service: 3
- Rank: Specialist
- Awards and decorations: National Defense Award; Army Service Award
“The Army taught me a lot about life, people, teamwork, and professionalism. It is a great place to learn about different people and cultures, learn hard work, and grow your resilience.”