Five-Minute Feature: Matt Quinn, Veteran and Military Resource Center Manager

Man with a beard and gray shirt standing in the Military Resource Center, with U.S. flags in the background, next to SUNY Empire 5 Minute Feature logo.
Photo courtesy of Matt Quinn.
Posted On: November 5, 2025

Get to know the Empire State University community through this rapid-fire interview series that bridges professional accomplishments and personal interests. What makes Empire State University exceptional? The unique people behind the work. Five minutes—starting now!

What led you to your career path? 

It wasn’t a straight path, as I never knew what I wanted to do, so I started trying different things.  At Empire, I’ve had the chance to work in multiple areas.  What they’ve all had in common was opportunity to work with or serve the military community indirectly or, like now, directly in the VMRC.

What is your favorite thing about SUNY Empire? 

The cast of characters I’ve met here is one of my favorite parts of Empire.  My first mentee was a Spanish paratrooper who was always so excited to talk, and to have the opportunity to complete his degree. The 93-year-old WW2 veteran with his stories about the arctic convoys to Murmansk, and facing the typhoon that hit Hawaii while working on the movie “Waterworld.”  Empire’s own Jim McMahon, who had a story or two for every occasion.  Also, traveling to military bases throughout the country brought me to some amazing places I likely never would have seen.  

What’s one moment in your career you’re especially proud of?   

I can’t really point to one moment, but the VMRC has been hosting the transition assistance program for about a year now.  When you hear from military personnel, instructors, and presenters from all different industries that your location is the best place they’ve ever attended, it’s rewarding.

What’s the best street food or snack you’ve ever tried? 

That’s a tough one, there were some amazing food trucks doing the rounds in Irvine, CA. You couldn’t go wrong with one of those.

What’s one thing you feel is important to share this Veteran and Military Families Month?  

Honor veterans as a group, but remember they’re individuals as well.  All veterans’ experiences were different, different branches as well.  As you get to know or work with veterans, you’ll see the individuality of each.