The University of West Florida launched a newly formed Office of Military Services, bringing together the university’s Army and Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs and the Military and Veterans Resource Center under the Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz Center for Leadership.
The Office of Military Services' (OMS) focus is to streamline support for military-affiliated students, fostering a cohesive environment that enhances their academic and leadership development. By uniting these programs, the University of West Florida (UFW) seeks to strengthen its commitment to serving those who have served or are preparing to serve our nation.
“Northwest Florida is home to so many military and veteran communities that it is only natural for UWF to have all of them served from a single place of prominence at the university,” said UFW Interim President Manny Diaz Jr.
The initiative reflects UFW’s dedication to creating a supportive community for veterans and active-duty personnel. The university offers various programs specifically designed for military and veteran students, including TeacherReady, General Education Mobile and PALACE Aquire Program. A full list can be found here.
The OMS will serve as a “priority program” under the President’s Office. A priority program is one that receives special attention or resources, often due to its strategic importance or alignment with the university’s goals.
Diaz made a point in his first press conference after being named the new interim president last month that he wanted to build on the university’s reputation as a military-friendly institution.
“I know a lot of work has been done with that, but we have to make sure we can continue to leverage that and maximize that potential from what access, affordability and strong student outcomes,” he said at the conference. “Every student that walks on this campus should know that they belong. We are committed to helping them cross that graduation stage and thrive as they take what they’ve learned at UWF into the world.”
Diaz named Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz Center for Leadership’s Dr. Andrew Del Gaudio as the executive director of the Office of Military Services. He will work closely with Clifford Humphrey, vice president of strategic initiatives, as well as Christian Cosner, director of institutional reporting and strategic research.
The office was created to collaborate with the President’s Office on military and veteran equities both on campus and in the community, according to Diaz.
“I’m excited to have Dr. Del Gaudio lead this effort,” Diaz said. “The Office of Military Services will not only assist in the development of our Officer Cadets, but also assure that we continue to provide excellent service to our military-affiliated students while forging a pathway forward with our strategic government and military partners alike.”
For more information on what the university offers for active-duty personnel and veterans, visit their website here.