Ryan Hastings, an alumnus of the University of Mary Washington (UMW) and a dedicated veteran, plays an instrumental role in supporting veterans and active-duty service members, along with their families, to achieve their educational and career aspirations. With 20 years of experience in the Army, Hastings has transformed his commitment to service into a mission of assisting military-affiliated students at UMW through the Veterans Resource Center. He offers vital information about veteran-specific benefits and resources to help them navigate their educational journeys.
In November, Hastings takes on additional responsibilities by coordinating several Veterans Day events that honor those who have served. This year, UMW will kick off the celebrations with a flag-raising ceremony and a special luncheon dedicated to veterans’ sacrifices and contributions. The celebrations will extend throughout the week, including a Veterans Small Business of the Year Award presentation and events hosted by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD).
Beyond the Veterans Day activities, Hastings is also actively involved with the Student Veterans Association, a group dedicated to fostering a sense of community among military-affiliated students. He encourages veterans seeking camaraderie to join the association, which meets regularly at the Veterans Resource Center—an inviting space where students can study and socialize.
UMW offers various support programs for military-connected students, including benefits such as the Montgomery GI Bill and the Veterans Educational Assistance Program, among others. Hastings serves as the certifying official for numerous students taking advantage of these benefits, ensuring they receive the assistance they need to succeed in their studies.
The Veterans Day events at UMW are specially designed to honor the sacrifices made by veterans while providing an opportunity for military-affiliated students to connect and reflect on their shared experiences. Highlights of the observances include a flag-raising ceremony featuring the Mountain View High School Marine JROTC Color Team and a luncheon designed to build community among UMW students associated with the military.
In a spirit of inclusivity, the Dahlgren campus will host a Veterans Day observance that is free to veterans, their families, and the wider community, further emphasizing UMW’s commitment to honoring those who have served. Additionally, a ceremony celebrating the Veteran Small Business of the Year will showcase resources available to veterans looking to start or grow their businesses.
For more resources and information on support services for veterans at UMW, individuals can visit the university’s dedicated Veteran & Military Resources web page.
This initiative not only highlights the university’s commitment to honoring veterans but also demonstrates how educational institutions can effectively bridge the gap between military service and civilian life, fostering environments where veterans can thrive.