USF-Sarasota Manatee Veterans Support Programs
by Christopher White
Imagine starting over, heading back to college after an initial enlistment or years after separation to gain a new skill. Where to start? How to juggle a job, school and family? Our March luncheon speaker has recently lived that life. Todd Hughes is a 2014 graduate of the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee (USFSM) with a degree in history. Todd is a natural leader, not only for veterans, but the entire student body. Todd served as the USFSM Student Government Association President where he brought veterans’ issues and needs to the forfront.
Todd joined the Oklahoma Army National Guard the day after his 17th birthday while still in high school. He went Active Duty Army as soon as he could and spent a total of five years in the military with about two being in the National Guard and three on Active Duty. He deployed to Iraq with the 1st Cavalry Division from March 2004 through March of 2005, and he left the Army after his initial enlistment. Todd and his wife, whom he met in the Army, have two children.
Todd will speak to us about USFSM Veteran Programs and his initiative to establish a Student Veteran Mentorship Program at the Sarasota Manatee campus. Where will mentors come from? Wherever there are successful business/community leaders with a match to the student’s field of study. Quite possibly from MOAS’ own ranks. Don’t miss this luncheon on March 20th and the opportunity to hear from an energetic young veteran who is making a difference in our community.
Todd will speak to us about USFSM Veteran Programs and his initiative to establish a Student Veteran Mentorship Program at the Sarasota Manatee campus. Where will mentors come from? Wherever there are successful business/community leaders with a match to the student’s field of study. Quite possibly from MOAS’ own ranks. Don’t miss this luncheon on March 20th and the opportunity to hear from an energetic young veteran who is making a difference in our community.
