When U.S. Veterans Magazine sat down with the leadership team of Learning Alliance, it was clear why the institution earned recognition as a Top Veteran School. Joining the conversation were Cesar Ruiz, President and Founder; Fred Arnold, Executive Director; Derrick Francis, Chief Operating Officer; and Ken Minter, Chief Revenue Officer. Each offered powerful insights into how Learning Alliance empowers veterans, helping them transition from military service to high-demand careers.Mission Rooted in ServiceFor Cesar Ruiz, who founded Learning Alliance 22 years ago, the recognition validates a mission that has always been focused on workforce development. “It just means that we’re doing…
Author: USVM
By Matt RuggieriWhen I left the Army after more than eight years of service, I thought the hard part was behind me. I earned my associate’s degree when I joined, and after transitioning to civilian life, I went on to earn both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees. I had leadership experience, a strong work ethic and the ability to perform under pressure. What I didn’t have was a clear direction for the next chapter of my life.Like many veterans, I initially gravitated toward familiar territory: structured roles in construction and logistics. I eventually became a senior project manager for a…
At Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington, supporting veterans is more than a commitment—it’s a calling. With a growing population of military-connected students, Whitworth has distinguished itself as a leader in veteran education, earning recognition from U.S. Veterans Magazine as both a Top Veteran School and Top Yellow Ribbon School.Much of this success can be attributed to Phil Labrie, Whitworth’s Associate Director, Military & Veterans Outreach. A U.S. Air Force veteran and university alum, Labrie brings a unique perspective to the role. “When I got out of the Air Force in 2003, I used my GI Bill to attend Whitworth. That decision…
By Tanecia Favors Deployment is a dreaded word that sends heartache through each of us, whether you’re a spouse who’s new to this lifestyle or have been at it for years. Truthfully, in terms of time, I’d probably be considered a seasoned spouse. When it comes to my feelings though, it often feels like I was thrown into this world of unknowns yesterday.My husband and I recently celebrated our 11-year anniversary, and honestly, time has flown by. So much has changed—our family has grown by two, we’ve experienced three different duty stations, and over the past few years, he’s…
The Military Basketball Association (MBA) is coming home — and bringing its mission to save lives through basketball back to where it all began. The 2026 MBA World Championship Games will take place at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, honoring the service, strength, and resilience of America’s military community.Before the championship tip-off, the MBA will host a three-day tournament focused on suicide prevention, May 1–3, 2026, at Clune Arena during Mental Health Awareness Month. The top two men’s and women’s teams will go head-to-head in the nationally televised, livestreamed MBA World Championship Games on Sunday,…
If you’re looking for something gripping, human, and visually striking to dive into this November, look no further than MARINES, the new docuseries from Netflix. It premiered in early November and takes you inside the life of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) — America’s rapid-response “force in readiness” based in the Pacific.Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find, why it matters, and why it might stick with you long after the credits roll.What’s the show about?At its core, MARINES is a coming-of-age story in military gear. It’s not just explosive drills and heroic poses; it’s the quieter, scarred, messy stuff…
SAN DIEGO, CA – October 28, 2025 – National University (NU)—a nonprofit, Veteran-founded institution serving nontraditional, working, and military-connected students—today announced the launch of a national initiative called “The ANDers™ Movement” to recognize the resilience and determination of NU’s “ANDers” – students who are parents and professionals, caregivers and servicemembers, and others balancing multiple roles while pursuing higher education.“National University was founded over 50 years ago to serve students who have often been overlooked—career professionals, parents, and military-connected learners,” said Dr. Mark D. Milliron, president and CEO of National University. “The ANDers Movement celebrates the strength, ambition, and determination of…
Affected members of the U.S. Military, Coast Guard, Federal First Responders and other employees will not see Verizon services impacted during government shutdown.Beginning October 14, 2025, members of the U.S. Military, Coast Guard, first responders, and other federal government employees affected by the shutdown who require more time to pay their Verizon bill are invited to call the company and ask for payment deferral options.“Verizon is dedicated to supporting our customers and the communities we serve. We understand the ongoing federal government shutdown may create financial difficulties for members of the U.S. Military, Coast Guard, federal employees and first responders,”…
The University at Buffalo (UB) has once again earned national recognition as a Top Veteran School by U.S. Veterans Magazine, and for good reason. With more than 750 military-connected students—including veterans, active-duty personnel, spouses and dependents—UB is committed to building a strong, supportive environment for those who have served.Daniel Ryan, Director of Veteran Services at UB, has spent his career helping student veterans succeed, and he says this recognition reinforces the work his office does daily. “Being recognized as a top Military Friendly School is extremely gratifying,” Ryan says. “But even with that recognition, we know we have to earn…
Montel Williams isn’t just a familiar face—he’s a trusted voice. As a trailblazing veteran—Williams returns for his third U.S. Veterans Magazine cover and story, and with good reason. Over the years, he has remained at the forefront of meaningful work that directly impacts veterans’ lives, using his platform to advocate for better health care, transitional support and community reinvestment.From his decorated service in the U.S. Marine Corps and Navy to his decades of public advocacy, Williams continues to lead by example. He’s served on the board of the Fisher House Foundation for over 15 years, helping ensure military families have…
