Jamie served for five years as a Hospital Corpsman (Fleet Marine Force) in the United States Navy attached to Marine Corps units worldwide, including combat operations in Afghanistan. He was a dependent for a time while his wife, Jyhan, served in the Navy.
“In the Navy, I learned to ‘See it, do it and teach it’ and I carry that with me still to this day.”
This week, he will have the honor of carrying that mantra all the way to our nation’s capital, serving as a mentor at the Student Veterans of America (SVA) Fall Leadership Institute. It’s an honor that Marshall’s Director of Military Affairs Jonathan McCormick says is all about leadership development.
“SVA is the largest student veteran group in America,” McCormick said. “They have become a huge force in the legislative field in lobbying for veteran benefits.”
It’s an organization that’s centered on providing support for one another. Its mission is to act as a catalyst for student veteran success by providing resources, network support and advocacy to, through and beyond higher education.
“When veterans come to campus after military service, it can be an interesting transition,” Jamie said. “The SVA creates that sense of family to help with the process.”
Nationally, SVA is the premier student veteran organization leading in research and advocacy for all veterans on Capitol Hill.
“Veterans bring a unique perspective to our campus,” said Jonathan. “These students have seen more of the world, lived and trained with others from all walks of life. All of this further enhances Marshall’s diverse student community.”
“I will have the opportunity to share my journey with over 100 student veteran leaders from around the country as they go through the fantastic, one-of-a-kind curriculum,” Jamie said. “The best part is, I will gain additional skills to better serve our Marshall students and SVA chapters throughout West Virginia.”
After his years of serving in the military, this new chapter is one of which he is extremely proud of.
“Marshall University and Student Veterans of America have changed the trajectory of my life,” Jamie said. “This is my Marshall Moment, as I will proudly represent my university nationally. It’s a true honor.”
Jamie plans to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in social work in 2024. He expects to immediately begin working on a master’s degree, while continuing to serve on campus with SVA.
“It’s a great feeling to better yourself after struggles, but helping to pull others up with you and push them further is the only way to build a thriving community. To me, that’s what it’s all about—a worthwhile mission.”
