Empire State University’s Veteran and Military Resource Center Honors Student Veterans During Veteran and Military Families Month
For the second consecutive year, veteran and military students attending Empire State University were honored for their contributions to the nation and to the university community. The “Honoring Our Heroes” event was held Wednesday, November 19 at SUNY Empire’s Veteran and Military Resource Center (VMRC), located at 111 West Avenue in Saratoga. The banners featuring their photos are proudly displayed outside the VMRC.
Empire State University leadership, faculty, and staff attended the event, as well as Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford, and representatives from SUNY, the Veteran Community Housing Coalition, Saratoga Economic Development Corporation, NYS Department of Veteran Services, and the Capital Region Chamber. The 14 honorees were nominated by mentors and staff across the university and selected by a committee.
Empire State University serves more than 1,000 military-affiliated students, more than any other SUNY institution – granting 20% of all military-affiliated four-year degrees within SUNY.
SUNY Empire serves active duty, guard, reserve, and veteran service members, as well as military spouses and dependents.
“Each of our students being celebrated today has served our nation to protect the freedoms we cherish, the opportunities we enjoy, and the foundation of our democracy,” said President Lisa Vollendorf. “It is SUNY Empire’s honor and duty to support you on your educational journey.”
“I am so proud to be doing the work I do every single day in service to military and veteran students and their families,” said Director of the Veteran and Military Resource Center Desiree Drindak. “I appreciate all of you—for your exceptional service, your dedication to your communities, and commitment to our country. You are remarkable.”
“The Veteran and Military Resource Center is precious to Saratoga Springs and to Empire State University,” said Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford.
2025 Honorees
- Ciaran Callahan, Army
- Andrew Cheatham II, Army
- Cameron Cortes, Air Force
- Carolyn Green, Army
- Thomas Hazelbaker, Navy
- Benjamin Lyndaker, Marine Corps
- Anthony Martinez ’20, ’23, Coast Guard
- Brian Murphy ’25, Navy
- Krista Nuite ’22, Air Force
- Elahni Ocean ’25, Army
- Marion Potter, Air Force
- Melvyn Rosario ’12, ’15, ’17, Army
- Thomas Ruffing ’19, ’25, Marine Corps and Army
- Brian Sherman ’17, Army and Marine Corps