HigherEdMilitary is excited to announce the recipient of the 2025 HigherEdMilitary Spotlight Award. The award highlights those working in higher education who are exceptional at finding innovative ways to change, grow, and support the military-affiliated population on campus.

The 2025 recipient is Marshall Thomas. Dr. Marshall W. Thomas is the director of veterans affairs at the California State University Office of the Chancellor. Congratulations Marshall!

A HigherEdMilitary Advisory Council member shares, "Marshall has played a crucial role in shaping policies and programs that directly benefit student veterans, ensuring they have access to the resources, guidance, and community support needed to thrive in higher education. His leadership, advocacy, and innovative approaches have not only improved veteran services but have also fostered a culture of inclusivity and respect for those who have served."

"One of Marshall's most significant contributions is the development of the Vet Net Ally training program, which has educated thousands of higher education professionals in military cultural competency. This pioneering initiative has enhanced awareness and understanding of the unique challenges faced by student veterans, equipping faculty, staff, and administrators with the knowledge and tools necessary to create a more inclusive and supportive campus environment. Vet Net Ally has been widely adopted by colleges and universities across the country, demonstrating Marshall's far-reaching influence and commitment to veteran success."

When we asked Dr. Thomas, 'What keeps you inspired to continue the work you are doing?' he notes, "Seeing veterans transition from military service to academic success is what drives the work each day, but there is so much more that goes into that process that motivates me. It's the people I get to work with that make each day brighter. There are nearly a hundred professionals at California State University campuses dedicated to supporting military-affiliated students. Our VRC directors, coordinators, advisors and School Certifying Officials are driven and committed to the success of their students. The energy they bring to their work is contagious. I'm fortunate to be invited to speak to faculty and staff about veterans in higher education at campuses around the country. Knowing that there are thousands of faculty and staff members who have taken the time to learn how to best serve veterans - and who support their success in the classroom and on campus - is the most inspirational part of my professional life."

"Marshall Thomas's unwavering dedication, innovative training programs, and national impact make him highly deserving of this award. His work has truly transformed the landscape of veteran support in higher education, leaving a legacy that will continue to benefit veterans for years to come," shares a council member.

The nominees and recipient are selected by the HigherEdMilitary Advisory Council. The council considered the experiences, accomplishments, and contributions of each nominee against a weighted rubric that rates how well each individual has found innovative ways to change, grow, and support the military-affiliated population on their campus. A donation is made on behalf of the winner and each nominee to the campus club, department, or office of their choosing.

Please join us in recognizing the other innovative and inspiring professionals who are also leading the way in higher education and supporting military-affiliated students. Learn more about each HigherEdMilitary Spotlight nominee here.

Article Topics

Military Friendly Institutions Serving Military in HigherEd Working as a Veteran in HigherEd

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